Popular South actress Silk Smitha, who worked with superstar Rajinikanth during 80s, was considered as a glamour doll for Kollywood. Born Vijayalakshmi Vadlapati, Silk Smitha was one of the most sought-after actresses in the film industry during the 1980s and early 1990s, with leading filmmakers eager to cast her in movies.
But, behind glamour lied a painful reality which only Smitha knew. The actress was battling depression amid financial struggles and failed relationships. She died by suicide in 1996 at the age of 35.
'No One Loved Me': Silk Smitha
According to a report in ETimes, Silk Smitha's handwritten final (suicide) letter, revealing her emotional pain, resurfaced online years back and here is what she wrote in it:
Silk Smitha
Smitha expressed deep emotional pain, alleging betrayal, abuse and exploitation by people she had trusted. She pointed out how people had taken advantage of both her work and her body while her dreams of a better life remained unfulfilled.
Silk Smitha
Silk Smitha's First Movie With Rajinikanth
Silk Smitha's first movie alongside Rajinikanth is the Tamil action film Moondru Mugam, released in 1982. She featured prominently in the popular song sequence "Yethanaiyo", which helped cement her status as a major icon in South Indian cinema.
More about her: Silk Smitha became one of Indian cinema's most iconic actresses during the 1980s. Known for her bold screen presence and popular dance numbers, she appeared in over 450 films across Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, Kannada and Hindi cinema.