In a touching tribute to one of Indian cinema’s most revered icons, a road junction in Mumbai was dedicated to the late Sridevi, one of the industry’s most beloved actresses. The event saw an outpouring of emotion as family, friends, and fans gathered to pay homage to the actress whose untimely passing in 2018 left an indelible void.
On Saturday evening, a notable crowd assembled in Lokhandwala, Mumbai, where Sridevi Chowk was officially inaugurated. Central to this poignant ceremony were Boney Kapoor, her husband, and Khushi Kapoor, their daughter, both visibly moved by the commemoration. The chowk stands not only as a physical location but as a lasting testament to Sridevi’s unparalleled contribution to Indian cinema.
The unveiling ceremony was attended by an array of well-known faces from the film fraternity, including celebrated actor Anupam Kher, veteran actress Shabana Azmi, and the charming Poonam Dhillon. The gathering turned into an emotional walk down memory lane for many attendees who shared anecdotes and personal stories, recalling Sridevi’s charisma and her significant impact on the film industry.
As the event progressed, Boney Kapoor performed the symbolic act of uncovering a plaque adorned with Sridevi’s image at the chowk, which is situated near the family’s longtime residence, Green Acres Tower. As the image was revealed, the moment underscored the emotional weight of the event, capturing the collective sentiment of loss and reverence shared by all present.
Despite her absence, Sridevi continues to be celebrated by fans and peers alike for her versatility and memorable performances across a myriad of roles. Her career, which spanned several decades, showcased her remarkable ability to transition seamlessly between genres and languages, becoming a beloved figure not just in Hindi cinema, but also in Tamil, Telugu, and Malayalam films. This versatility allowed her to surpass cultural and linguistic barriers, endearing her to a worldwide audience.
Born Shree Amma Yanger Ayyapan, Sridevi officially took on her famous pseudonym for her entry into the world of film.
. With an expansive career that encapsulated critically acclaimed films like “Sadma,” “Chandni,” and “English Vinglish,” Sridevi carved a niche for herself that remains unparalleled. Her performances were not merely acting feats; they transcended cinema to offer poignant reflections on life’s myriad complexities and joys.
Her personal life, much like her career, was under the media’s microscope. She married esteemed producer Boney Kapoor in 1996, and the couple had two daughters, Janhvi and Khushi, in 1997 and 2000, respectively. Tragically, this picture of familial bliss was marred by her sudden death on February 24, 2018, due to accidental drowning in a bathtub in a Dubai hotel during a family wedding.
The mystery and suddenness of her passing left many grappling with a profound sense of loss. Fans frequently express sentiments of sorrow and continue to voice their emotional responses to her absence on social media platforms. A recent video from the ceremony, shared widely, invited poignant comments, with one fan lamenting, “The daughter is actually missing her mom,” while others reflected on her death with heartfelt messages, “Sridevi, respect.”
Though absent from the ceremony, Janhvi Kapoor was undoubtedly present in spirit. Her sister Khushi and father Boney, their faces etched with the pain of loss—yet full of pride—stood as a reminder of the deep personal connection Sridevi had with those she loved.
In honoring Sridevi through the inauguration of this chowk, the city of Mumbai has enshrined her memory in its urban landscape. The dedication serves as both a physical and symbolic marker of Sridevi’s lasting impact on Indian culture and cinema. The chowk will remind future generations of one woman’s remarkable ability to touch hearts and transcend the confines of celluloid, inviting them to explore her legacy that continues to inspire and enchant to this day.
