Leela Mishra: A Look Back at the Life and Career of the ‘Sholay’ Actress

Leela Mishra, the actress who played Basanti’s aunt in ‘Sholay,’ was a unique figure in the Indian film industry. She was known for her unwavering principles and her extensive work in over 300 films. Notably, she maintained her veil throughout her career, a symbol of her personal convictions. Mishra began her acting journey at 18, already a mother. Despite initial opposition, her family eventually supported her career due to her husband’s influence. Her marriage to Ram Prasad Mishra took place when she was 12. Ram, a character artist in silent films, was instrumental in encouraging her acting career. They both acted in the film ‘Sati Sulochana,’ where Leela earned a higher fee than her husband, highlighting her growing presence on screen. She set a condition that she would not remove her veil or perform romantic roles, a testament to her strong values. These conditions were accommodated because of her talent, paving the way for her to work in numerous films. Her role as a hero’s mother in ‘Honhar’ at 18 catapulted her to fame, influencing character portrayals in later films. Even in ‘Sholay,’ her short screen time was met with great affection from the audience. Mishra passed away at 80 due to a heart attack, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate within the industry.