Shyama, other stars of that era, had no tantrums, says Naved Jafri

Actress Shyama, aged 82, died yesterday in Mumbai of a lung infection. Born Khurshid Akhtar, Shyama acted in around 175 films and was best known for her act in films like Aar-Paar (1954), Bhabhi (1957) and Sharada (1957). 

Actor and television host Naved Jafri’s family, including brother Javed Jaffrey and father Jagdeep, who acted with Shyama in the 1950s, were among the actress's friends. “We used to meet her during religious gatherings," Naved Jafri said. "She was a very jovial, nice and humble person. But she was not keeping well of late.”

Asked about her film performances, he said, “What to say about her acting! She was a legend. She was a natural and looked beautiful. Such people are real stars. She has given so many brilliant performances. Aar-Paar was one such. Later she also did well in the roles of mother as well as a negative mother. She did a lot of work and was versatile.”

Other yesteryear artistes would also turn up for the religious gatherings, making for interesting moments, Jafri recalled. “Kum Kumji, Nimmi aunty and a few other veteran artistes used to come," he said. "This is where we all used to meet. They used to talk about the old days with my father. They had no starry tantrums. They were such simple people!”