National Award-Winning writer and director Sumitra Bhave passed away in Pune. She was suffering from age-related ailments and was under observation in a private hospital. She was 78 years old.

Sumitra made her first film in 1985, named ‘Bai’ while working as the Director of Research Project at Stree Vani. The movie followed the life of a woman in the slums navigating daily life. The theme of social causes remained prevalent in many of her later projects. Bai won the ‘National Film Award for Best Non-Feature Film on Family Welfare at the 33rd National Film Awards.

She also won a National Award under the Best Educational / Motivational/ Instructional Films at the 35th National Film Awards for the film Paani.

She is known for various other films like Chakori, Loha, Three Faces of Tomorrow, and Gautam’s Mother, all of which she both wrote and directed.
Sumitra, along with her co-director Sunil Sukthankar, made a huge contribution to the Marathi Cinema. The duo started working together with the Marathi film ‘Doghi’, and also worked together for their film Devrai, both of which were honored with the National Awards.

The duo also directed Gho Mala Asla Hava which was premiered at the Pune International Film Festival. The film marked the debut for actor Radhika Apte. She played the character Savitra who rebels against her father’s wish to get married in a comical commentary on married life.

Actor-director Swanand Kirikire expressed his condolences while applauding Sumitra for always making films on her terms. “Rest In Peace Sumitra Bhave. Thank you for making such amazing heartfelt films always on your terms …This song from your Kaasav | Leher Samandar Re…,” he tweeted.

Rest In Peace Sumitra Bhave. Thank you for making such amazing heart felt films always on your own terms …This song from your Kaasav | Leher Samandar Re… https://t.co/oEjKWLkJsd via @YouTube

— Swanand Kirkire (@swanandkirkire) April 19, 2021

Milind Soman also tweeted, “Sumitra Bhave, one of the loveliest people, and one of the most wonderful directors I have ever worked with, has passed away. I will miss her.” Milind worked in Astu and Samhita directed by Sumitra-Sukthankar.

Sumitra Bhave, one of the loveliest people, and one of the most wonderful directors I have ever worked with, has passed away. I will miss her.

— Milind Usha Soman (@milindrunning) April 19, 2021

Sumitra always follow her heart, talking about issues that mattered, ranging from social issues to mental health. The latest Sumitra-Sukthankar collaboration Kaasav won the ‘Swarna Kamal’ at the National Awards. She also lends her voice to Chaitanya Tamhane’s directorial The Disciple. The movie was entered into the 77th Venice International Film Festival making it the second Indian film since Monsoon Wedding. It will be available on Netflix from 30 April.