A cinematic legend, renowned for her captivating performances in both Bengali and Hindi cinema, once declined an offer to work with the iconic Raj Kapoor due to her aversion to night shoots. This actress, who received a National Award and is celebrated as one of the greatest actresses in Indian cinema, maintained a strong principle against working at night throughout her illustrious career.
Suchitra Sen, born Roma Dasgupta, was known as Mahanayika, meaning 'Great Actress'. Her pairing with actor Uttam Kumar produced timeless classics in Bengali cinema. Sen's filmography boasts remarkable performances in films like "Saat Pake Bandha," for which she won the Silver Prize for Best Actress at the Moscow International Film Festival in 1963, making her the first Indian actress to receive an award at an international film festival. In 1972, the Indian government awarded her the Padma Shri, the country's fourth-highest civilian honor.
Despite numerous offers from prominent filmmakers, Suchitra Sen remained steadfast in her refusal to compromise on her principles. One such instance involved Raj Kapoor, who wanted to cast her in one of his films under the RK banner. However, upon learning that the role would require her to shoot during the night, Sen politely declined the offer.
Rishi Kapoor also once declined to work in his father Raj Kapoor's film because he wanted to shoot at night, Rakesh Om Prakash Mehra revealed.
Suchitra Sen's decision to prioritize her personal principles over professional opportunities demonstrates her unwavering commitment to her values. Even after her husband's death in 1970, she continued acting but retired in 1978, after a career spanning over 25 years, choosing a life of quiet seclusion. She avoided public attention, dedicating her time to the Ramakrishna Mission. In 2005, she declined the Dadasaheb Phalke Award to stay out of the public eye. The West Bengal government honored her with the Banga Bibhushan in 2012.
Her stance against night shoots was not merely a matter of convenience but a deeply held principle. This commitment to her values, coupled with her immense talent, solidified her legacy as not just a brilliant actress but also a woman of conviction. Suchitra Sen's career serves as an inspiration, proving that success doesn't always require compromising one's principles.
