Veteran Indian actress Sulochana Latkar passed away aged 94 in Mumbai on Sunday, June 4, 2023. The Padma Shri awardee's demise was confirmed by her daughter Kanchan Ghanekar. “She had age-related health issues and breathing difficulties," Ganekar told the media.

Latkar began her career featuring in Marathi films in the early 1940s and eventually moved on to Hindi films. She is known for her "mother roles" in movies like Shammi Kapoor’s Dil Dekhe Dekho, Dilip Kumar’s Aadmi and Dev Anand’s Jhonny Mera Naam.

Between 1946 to 1961, she has featured in Marathi films, including  Sasurvas (1946), Vahinichya Bangdya (1953), Meeth Bhakar, Sangtye Aika (1959), Laxmi Ali Ghara, Mothi Manse, Jivacha Sakha, Pativrata, Sukhache Sobti, Bhaubheej, Akashganga and Dhakti Jau. Latkar was also felicitated with the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 2004 and the Maharashtra Bhushan Award in 2009.

Offering condolences, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, wrote on Twitter, "The passing away of Sulochana Ji leaves a big void in the world of Indian cinema. Her unforgettable performances have enriched our culture and have endeared her to people across generations. Her cinematic legacy will live on through her works.” Maharastra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde also paid tribute to the veteran actress.

The film fraternity, including actors Amitabh Bachchan, Riteish Deshmukh, and Madhuri Dixit, mourned the death of the legendary actress. Madhuri Dixit addressed Latkar as 'Tai' (Marathi for Older Sister) and said the latter was one of most loved and graceful actresses cinema has seen. “My favourite film of hers will always be Sangate Aika. Her performance in every film was memorable. I will miss our conversations, may you rest in peace. Your contribution to Indian cinema will always be remembered," Dixit wrote.