**‘Navrang’ Actor Sandhya Shantaram, V Shantaram’s Wife, Passes Away at 87**
*By Apoorva Rastogi | October 4, 2025, 4:12 PM*
Veteran actor Sandhya Shantaram, renowned for her grace, courage, and memorable performances, passed away at the age of 87. She was widely celebrated for her roles in iconic films such as *Navrang* and *Pinjra*, and is especially remembered for the classic song “Arre Ja Re Hatt Natkhat” from *Navrang*.
### A Legendary Performance
One of the highlights of Sandhya Shantaram’s career was her captivating dance performance in *Navrang* (1959), directed by her husband, V. Shantaram. Notably, she learned classical dance specifically for this sequence. Without a choreographer, she and the director created the dance steps themselves. To add grandeur to the scene, real elephants and horses were brought onto the set. Demonstrating remarkable fearlessness, Sandhya danced alongside these animals without the use of a stunt double or any tricks.
### Personal Life and Career
V. Shantaram, already married to Jayashree at the time, fell in love with Sandhya while working with her on *Navrang*. After their marriage, Sandhya became his muse and collaborated with him on several landmark Indian films including *Amar Bhoopali*, *Navrang*, *Pinjra*, *Do Aankhen Barah Haath*, and *Jhanak Jhanak Payal Baaje*. Together, they left an indelible mark on both the Marathi and Hindi film industries.
### Passing and Tributes
While the family has not officially disclosed the cause of Sandhya Shantaram’s death, a source informed *India Today* that she passed away due to health-related issues. Her last rites were conducted on Saturday at Vaikunth Dham in Shivaji Park.
Prominent BJP leader Ashish Shelar expressed his condolences on social media, writing, “The news of the passing of Sandhya Shantaram ji, the renowned actress from the film *Pinjra*, is extremely heartbreaking. In the Marathi and Hindi film industries, she left a distinct impression on the audience’s minds with her unparalleled acting and dance skills.”
Sandhya Shantaram’s contribution to Indian cinema remains unforgettable. May her soul rest in peace.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/entertainment/veteran-actor-sandhya-shantaram-dies-at-87/story
