Urmila Matondkar (born 1974) is an Indian actress, who started working as a child artist in 1977, she gained recognition with Masoom (1983), following which she appeared in a few other films. Her first lead role was in the Malayalam film Chanakyan (1989) and her subsequent romantic lead role in Narsimha (1991) both of which were commercial successes. She emerged as a star with Ram Gopal Varma’s romantic drama Rangeela in 1995.
She is one of the most underrated actresses of her time. When other actresses of her time were busy doing conventional Bollywood masala movies, Urmila was following her own path. She played so many versatile and unconventional roles that could put any actor of our time to shame. Some of her movies, even almost 20 years later have stood the test of time and are better than many of today’s junk and stupid movies.
Here are some of her finest performances that are reminders of her excellence and brilliance.
Bhoot
Though Bollywood struggles with the horror genre, this movie of Urmila was an exception. She played the role of a possessed housewife with such finesse that it left many stunned and horrified. Her performance stood out in the film, where other stalwarts like Nana Patekar, Ajay Devgn, Rekha, and Victor Banerjee also played important characters.
Rangeela
Before this movie, no one had thought that Urmila could also look so glamorous. Urmila as Mili touched so many hearts. She was the perfect girl next door to whom many could relate. She shared the screen with much more experienced actors like Aamir Khan and Jackie Shroff. But, even in their presence, she managed to leave her mark. Who did not fall in love with Mili’s journey of love, relationship, and dream?
Kaun?
One of the movies that redefined the genre of thriller in the country. Along with very talented Manoj Bajpayee, she gave one of her finest performances. Her remarkable sudden transition from the victim to the killer is one of the finest climaxes that Bollywood offers to its audience.
Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara
Though this movie was not a commercial success at the box office, it received a lot of critical acclaim. With Anupam Kher at his best, Urmila is the role of his daughter gave one of the finest performances of her career.
Satya
Although this movie is remembered for Manoj Bajpayee’s big foray into mainstream Bollywood. What a contrast from her earlier role in Rangeela, from extrovert, sensual, vivacious Mili to shy and innocent Vidya of Satya, Urmila’s talent has no limit.
Pyar Tune Kya Kiya
The range of emotions that Urmila has showcased in this movie will make you realize that there is no one like her. How she turns from a ‘seductress’ to an ‘obsessed ex-lover’ will make you applaud her acting skills.
Ek Haseena Thi
In this movie, Urmila gave her best performance. How she transitions from a naïve innocent lover to a bold survivor avenging herself is commendable. This movie is the ultimate example of what happens when a talented actress meets a well-written role.
Pinjar
Based on Amrita Pritam’s famous novel, ‘Pinjar’ offers excellent performances by Manoj Bajpayee and Urmila. The way Urmila captured the vulnerability and pain of this character Paro is quite commendable.
Judai
Although she was not the lead actress in this movie, against actors like Sridevi and Anil Kapoor, Urmila left her mark showing how great an actor she is. This movie was a huge commercial success at the box office.
Urmila in her lifetime never got any popular awards for her wonderful performances in the different films, yes she won a few critic awards for her performances.
The above-mentioned movies are just a reminder of how Urmila was the underrated Bollywood diva of her time.
Waiting for your views on this blog.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
16th September 2023