Mumbai, June 18 – While Yash Chopra’s film Lamhe did not achieve commercial success at the box office, it went on to become one of the most talked-about films at the 37th Filmfare Awards. Despite its lukewarm reception among audiences, the film secured major wins and affirmed Sridevi’s stature as a powerhouse performer.
As per agency report, the Best Actress category that year saw stiff competition from some of the most celebrated actresses of the time. Madhuri Dixit was nominated for Saajan, a massive hit, while Dimple Kapadia for Lekin, Rekha for Phool Bane Angaray, and Zeba Bakhtiar for Henna were also in contention. In the midst of these prominent performances, Sridevi’s nomination for Lamhe stood out as the film itself had been labeled a flop.
Lamhe told a bold and unconventional story that was considered ahead of its time. Sridevi portrayed a dual role, playing both a woman and her daughter, with the younger character reliving and reinterpreting her mother’s love story. The film explored the emotional complexity of a relationship challenged by a significant age gap, a theme that proved too nuanced for the audience of the era and drew criticism from several corners. Consequently, the film underperformed commercially.
However, Lamhe made a dramatic comeback at the Filmfare Awards. It triumphed over box office giants like Henna, Saajan, Saudagar, and Dil Hai Ke Manta Nahin to win the award for Best Film. Sridevi’s compelling performance earned her the Best Actress award, surpassing Madhuri Dixit, who was considered the frontrunner. Her portrayal in Lamhe was recognized as both courageous and emotionally layered, further solidifying her legacy.
In the same ceremony, Anupam Kher won the Best Comedian award for his role in Lamhe. The Best Actress trophy was presented to Sridevi by veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha, marking a memorable moment where talent and perseverance triumphed over critical doubt.
Sridevi, often hailed as one of the most beloved actresses in Hindi cinema, delivered many iconic performances in her career. Yet, the Filmfare Awards of 1992 hold special significance as they marked her defiant return to the spotlight, silencing critics and reaffirming her title as the undisputed queen of acting.
