Beyond the Silver Screen: The Artistic Soul of the Late Sridevi

While the legendary Sridevi remains etched in the hearts of millions for her unparalleled grace and commanding screen presence, there was a quiet, creative world she inhabited far from the spotlight. Beyond her iconic dance sequences and powerful performances, the late actress nurtured a deep-seated passion for painting—a personal pursuit she rarely shared with the public.

A heartwarming glimpse into this hidden hobby resurfaced through a nostalgic appearance on Salman Khan’s popular reality show, Dus Ka Dum. Joined by her husband, producer Boney Kapoor, and accompanied by their daughters, a young Janhvi and Khushi, the episode was originally intended to promote the 2009 hit film Wanted. However, it ended up becoming a memorable testament to the artistic bond between two of Bollywood’s biggest stars.

A Masterclass from Salman Khan

During the interaction, the conversation turned toward Sridevi’s secret portfolio. In a candid admission, the actress revealed that her artistic journey was, in part, influenced by the host himself.

"I have painted this," Sridevi confessed to Salman. "If you recall, I visited your home to take some tips. I have used your technique here."

Salman, known for his own abstract and expressive painting style, responded with characteristic humility. "But my painting is very bad; I tend to rush through it," he remarked, clearly impressed by the level of detail in her work. Upon learning that the piece had taken her ten days to complete, Salman expressed his admiration for the patience and dedication she invested in her craft.

The Inspiration Behind the Canvas

The show provided a rare platform for two of her personal paintings to be unveiled to the world. Boney Kapoor shared the intimate backstory behind one of the pieces, revealing that Sridevi had been inspired to create it after watching Sonam Kapoor’s debut film, Saawariya. The portrait was a thoughtful tribute that highlighted the actress’s deep appreciation for fellow artists and family.

At the time, reports circulated that one of Sridevi’s paintings was slated for an auction in Dubai, with estimates suggesting it could fetch between Rs 8–10 lakh. Ultimately, the auction never came to fruition, leaving the artwork as a private treasure held by the family.

This rare look at the late Sridevi serves as a poignant reminder of her multifaceted persona. While she was a titan of Indian cinema, she was also a woman of quiet introspection who found joy in the simple, deliberate stroke of a brush—a hidden talent that remains a cherished part of her legacy.