Bollywood’s shift from relational epics to action-packed extravaganzas has quietly sidelined talents like Shoma Anand. Making her mark in 1976 with Rishi Kapoor, the actress born February 16, 1958, in Mumbai embodied the era’s focus on societal and familial themes that struck chords with everyday viewers.
Yet, as films embraced explosive action, minimalist dialogues, and provocative elements, Shoma drew a line. ‘This cinema doesn’t connect with me emotionally,’ she articulated in an interview, lamenting the loss of layered characters to mere spectacle. Opting out of such roles, she pivoted masterfully to the small screen.
‘Hum Paanch’ redefined her career, cementing her as the quintessential TV mom. Hits like ‘Shraddha,’ ‘Maayka,’ ‘Jeannie Aur Juju,’ and ‘Khelti Hai Zindagi Ank Micholi’ followed, proving her adaptability in comedic and dramatic realms alike.
Beyond the arc lights, tragedy struck with husband Tariq Shah’s passing in 2021. Embracing family life with daughter Sara Shah, Shoma found peace away from the industry’s frenzy. Her narrative captures Bollywood’s evolution pains, bridging yesteryear charm with contemporary demands, and poses a timeless question: has cinema lost its heart?