Anita Guha Reflects on Her Iconic Role

Anita Guha, who gained immense recognition for her portrayal of Santoshi Maa in the 1975 film, shared her experiences of fame in a nostalgic interview. She humorously noted, "People have forgotten my real name," expressing how it used to bother her. However, she now finds it amusing, recalling how some would hesitate to approach her, believing she was a real goddess. "I’m just a regular person," she stated, reminiscing about the awkward moments when older women would sit at her feet, which she found uncomfortable. Even today, she is often called Santoshi Maa by children and adults alike, indicating that her portrayal has left a lasting impression. Guha expressed pride in having introduced a new goddess for worship in Hindu culture and hopes for a revival of mythological films.


The Making of Jai Santoshi Maa

The film Jai Santoshi Maa, directed by Vijay Sharma, premiered on the same day as the iconic Sholay, August 15. Guha recalled that the film was produced on a modest budget, stating, "It was just some lakhs." She had never heard of Santoshi Maa before the project, but after learning about the goddess, she agreed to participate, as she was known for both social and mythological films. Initially, she was to work only for 10-12 days, but the project faced delays before being revived, leading to its eventual success.


A Legacy in Mythological Cinema

Before her role in Jai Santoshi Maa, Guha had starred in numerous mythological films, with her portrayal of Sita in Sampoorna Ramayan being particularly notable. She mentioned that while she was initially recognized for her work in social dramas, the success of mythological films led to her being typecast. Despite her reluctance, she embraced the roles that followed, including significant performances in films like Aradhana, where she first introduced grey hair to her character. Guha expressed her frustration at being primarily remembered as Santoshi Maa, despite her extensive career.


Life After Fame

As the new millennium began, Guha's career slowed down, especially after the passing of her husband, actor Manik Dutt. Living alone in Mumbai, she admitted, "I’m tired and don’t feel like working anymore." Although she has no children, she feels a sense of family with her relatives' children. Guha finds joy in being recognized as Santoshi Maa, feeling a connection to the world around her. She maintains friendships within the film industry and often visits Kolkata to reconnect with loved ones, finding comfort in these relationships.


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