The late actress Soundarya, known for her iconic presence on the South Indian silver screen, left behind a legacy that continues to be cherished by fans. However, her untimely demise in a plane crash at the age of 27 on April 17, 2004, left a void in the industry and the hearts of many. Recently, it was revealed what she said to her sister-in-law on the same day she lost her life, and it was an unexpected request that showcased her simple desires.
Soundarya’s last words to her sister-in-law were not what one would typically anticipate. She asked for two things: cotton sarees and kumkum. The Doni Saagali actress, who had joined the BJP and intended to participate in their electoral campaigns, expressed her desire to wear cotton sarees for these events. However, she did not have any in her possession, which is why she asked her sister-in-law, Niramala, to purchase one for her. Additionally, Soundarya mentioned her preference for wearing kumkum, a traditional vermilion powder.
Little did the family know that these would be Soundarya’s final requests before boarding the ill-fated flight. The suddenness of her death came as a tragedy not only for her fans but also for her loved ones, who could never have anticipated that it would be the last time they would see her.
Soundarya’s illustrious career spanned across Telugu, Kannada, Tamil, and Malayalam cinema. She is still regarded as one of the finest actresses in Telugu cinema and has left a lasting impression on the Hindi film audience as well, particularly for her role opposite Amitabh Bachchan in Sooryavansham. The film’s re-telecasts on television have kept Soundarya’s memory alive, not just among South Indian cinema enthusiasts but also among Bollywood fans.
Throughout her career, Soundarya received numerous accolades, including a National Film Award for Best Feature Film. This recognition was bestowed upon her for the 2002 Kannada film Dweepa, in which she not only acted but also produced.
Soundarya’s last words, reflecting her simple desires for cotton sarees and kumkum, serve as a poignant reminder of the person she was—down-to-earth, passionate about her work, and deeply connected to her cultural roots. Her legacy continues to inspire and resonate with fans and the film industry, ensuring that she will always be remembered as one of the brightest stars to have graced the screen.
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