Sulakshana Pandit's Empathy Prevented Shabana Azmi from Quitting Bollywood

In November 2025, the veteran singer-actress Sulakshana Pandit sadly passed away, leaving behind a legacy of cinematic marvels that will inspire generations for decades to come. However, it is not just her on-screen work that has touched millions of hearts, but also her behind-the-scenes tales.

One such story involves Pandit's role in saving the film career of acclaimed actress Shabana Azmi. A few years ago, Azmi was rehearsing for a qawwali-mujra sequence for a Manmohan Desai film when the choreographer, a formidable name in the industry, snidely commented, "Why come into the acting field when you don't know how to dance?" Azmi was aghast, livid, and affronted, and she stormed out of the set, vowing to quit the industry.

However, a couple of days later, Azmi met Pandit, who quietly commented, "But why should you quit? He is the one who misbehaved. He should quit. He is there because of us actresses, not the other way around." This simple yet profound advice from Pandit was a "Eureka moment" for Azmi, who had always admired Pandit's beauty and on-screen presence. Azmi decided to stay in the industry, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Pandit's empathy and intelligence in that moment not only saved Azmi's career but also inspired countless others who have looked up to her as a role model. Her legacy continues to live on, reminding us all of the power of kindness and support in the face of adversity.