Bindiya Goswami: All I can remember is Vidya's smile

Bindiya Goswami

Vidya was my first co-star in the world of films. She played my mother in my debut film, Mukti (1977) that was produced and directed by Raj Tilak. Even though Jeevan Jyoti was my first release, I had started the shoot of Mukti first. It was my foray into films, and I had Vidya by my side. Though we shot together, I developed a rapport with Shashi Kapoor during the shoot rather than her.

It was only later when we met at Amol's [Palekar] 70th birthday party that we hit it off. Amol had invited all his industry friends to his house in Pune. During Mukti, I was a kid, and when I met her at the party, I was a mother to kids. She met me warmly as we hadn't met for so many years. It was from there that our friendship developed. After that, Vidya and I would regularly meet for lunch. In fact, last year, she was keen to come to my house for the Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations. Unfortunately, her shoot ran late and she could not make it.

Also read: Amol Palekar: Vidya was thrilled when I had made a portrait of her

I got a message from Amolji's wife this afternoon, saying that she had passed away. I wasn't even aware that she was unwell. Vidya had a lovely smile and right now, all I can think of is her smile. I cannot think of her being ill, on a ventilator… My vision of her is that of a lovely smile and a beautiful face ­ - that's how I want to remember her always.

Also read: Lyricist Yogesh Gaur on Vidya Sinha: She was Rajnigandha to fans after her first film

- As told to Upala KBR

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