‘Her portrayals dared to question norms’: Raj Babbar pens emotional note on Smita Patil’s birth anniversary

Smita Patil remains one of the most iconic figures in Indian cinema, remembered for her beauty, grace, and unmatched acting talent. In just over a decade, she appeared in more than 80 films, leaving a mark that few could match. From powerful dramas like 'Arth' and 'Akrosh' to socially conscious films such as 'Mirch Masala' and 'Nishant', she won hearts and inspired generations with her fearless portrayals.

Raj Babbar pens emotional note on Smita Patil’s birth anniversary

On October 17, 2025, Raj Babbar took to Instagram to pay a heartfelt tribute to his late wife on her birth anniversary, sharing memories of her career, her dedication to social change, and the remarkable legacy she left behind.


Babbar wrote, “Smita consciously used her cinematic journey as a medium to drive change. Her portrayals dared to question norms and dismantle stereotypes. Her ease with complex roles and her deep understanding of characters woven into our social fabric set her apart.”

Babbar further added, “She achieved so much within the brief span that destiny allowed. The brevity of her life will always feel like an unhealed grievance. On her birth anniversary, I fondly remember Smita Patil.”

Their first meeting happened during ‘Bheegi Palkein’

Raj Babbar and Smita Patil first worked together in the 1980 film 'Bheegi Palkein'. However, their first meeting actually happened before filming began, on the sets of the film in Rourkela, Odisha.

In a note published on Rediff in 2006, Raj recalled, “I met her for the first time in Rourkela in Orissa, where we had gone to shoot Satish Misra's film 'Bheegi Palken'. Our first meeting ended in a sort of clash, a sweet clash that laid the foundation of a relationship later.”

About Raj Babbar and Smita Patil’s relationship

For those who may not know, Raj Babbar was married to Nadira Babbar in 1975, and they had two children, Arya Babbar and Juhi Babbar.

However, Raj fell in love with Smita Patil while he was still married to Nadira. He divorced Nadira in 1982 and married Smita the following year. Raj and Smita welcomed their son Prateik in 1986, but tragedy struck when Smita passed away due to complications during childbirth.


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