Sumita Sanyal was one of the most prominant actresses of Bengali and Hindi films who is remembered for her beauty and grounded acting in films like Satyajit Ray’s Nayak (1966), Tapan Sinha’s Apanjan (1968), and Sagina Mahato (1970), as well as Hindi films Ashirwad (1968), Aanad (1971), and Guddi (1970).
Early Life and Career
Sumita Sanyal, born Manjula Sanyal on October 9, 1945, in Darjeeling. Her father, Girija Golkunda Sanyal, witnessed her transformation into a celebrated actress. She grew up in a cultured environment, exposed to literature and music, which shaped her artistic leanings. Herhad a soft, sonorous voice, a trait later noted in her acting. Sanyal attended a missionary school in Darjeeling.
Sumita’s journey in the film industry began with her debut in the Bengali film ‘”Khokababur Pratyabartan,” in 1960, directed by Bibhuti Laha, where she starred opposite the legendary Uttam Kumar. It was first director Bibhuti Laha who changed her name from Manjula to “Suchorita.” She shortened her name to Sumita on Kanak Mukhopadhyay’s suggestion. It was sctress Lila Desai who introduced her in films.
Some of her other films include Deya Neya (1963), Godhuli Bela (1964), Pratham Prem (1965), Eki Ange Eto Rup (1965), Shesh Tin Din (1966), Nutan Jiban (1966), Ashru Diye Lekha (1966), Hathat Dekha (1967), Teen Bhubhaner Parey (1969), Maya (1969), and many more.
She came in the big league with her performances in films like Asit Sen’s “Trishna (1965),” Satyajit Ray’s “Nayak (1966),” and Tapan Sinha‘s “Apanjan (1968),” “Sagina Mahato (1970),” where she shared the screen with Dilip Kumar, and Tarun Majumdar’s “Kuheli (1974),” alongside Biswajit and Sandhya Roy.
Sumita Sanyal In Hindi Films
Her Hindi cinema debut came with Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s iconic “Aashirwad” in 1968, where she acted along with Ashok Kumar, Veena, and Sanjeev Kumar. In Hindi cinema, Sumita Sanyal’s best known role came in Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s “Anand (1971).” In the film she played Renu, opposite Amitabh Bachchan. Her performance in “Anand” was not only cherished by audiences but also demonstrated her ability to hold her own alongside the biggest stars of the industry. Other notable Hindi films include Mukherjee’s “Guddi (1970)” and Gulzar‘s “Mere Apne (1971).”
Sumita Sanyal’s career was not limited to films. She also made her mark in television serials, professional stage, and group theatre, notably with “Ranga Sabha.” Her versatility and dedication to her craft earned her a special place in the hearts of audiences and within the film fraternity.
Personal Life
Sumita married film editor Subodh Roy. Together they had a son. She passed away on July 9, 2017, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire.
Sumita Sanyal on IMDB
