In Indian cinema few actresses have left a mark at a young age like Dimple Kapadia who entered Bollywood with Bobby at just 16. Interestingly the Malayalam and Tamil film industries also had their own starlet who stepped into the limelight at the same tender age Shanti Krishna. She made her acting debut in 1981 with the Malayalam film Nidra directed by Bharathan. At just 16 her raw yet impactful performance caught everyone’s attention paving the way for a flourishing career. Over the years she went on to work in both Malayalam and Tamil films winning hearts with her versatility. What made her stand out in the cinema? Shanti Krishna’s career saw her starring alongside some of the biggest names in South cinema including Mammootty and Mohanlal. Her comeback in the early 1990s solidified her place as one of the most admired actresses of her time. In Vishnulokam she played Mohanlal’s love interest a role that was widely praised. Interestingly in 1994 she appeared in two very different roles opposite Mohanlal: his mother in Pingami directed by Sathyan Anthikkad and his wife in Mohan’s Pakshe. Both performances highlighted her ability to transform seamlessly into diverse characters. Her hard work paid off when she received the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actress in 1994 for her powerful performance in Chakoram. How did her personal life unfold? While Shanti Krishna enjoyed success on the big screen her personal life was far from smooth. In the 1980s she married actor Srikanth. However the relationship ended in divorce after 12 years. Reflecting on that period she once said At that age I had so many romantic notions about love and marriage. My family questioned my decision but I was stubborn. Some people learn from others’ experiences but I had to learn through my own. In 1998 she tied the knot again this time with Bajore Sadasivan an industrialist based in the United States. The couple had two children together but sadly this marriage ended in divorce in 2016. Shanti Krishna on losing herself in marriage Speaking about her second marriage Shanti shared Over time I completely lost myself. I became like a puppet just following orders. I had no income of my own and was entirely dependent on others. I lost my identity. Now living a single life she admits that loneliness was never what she wanted. In her own words I never wanted to be alone but both marriages failed. Sometimes I wonder if it was my fault. Shanti Krishna remains remembered for her talent elegance and the courage with which she speaks about her struggles. Despite setbacks in her personal life she stands as an example of resilience and honesty in an industry that often hides its truths. Highlights Shanti Krishna entered films at just 16 with Nidra (1981). She won the Kerala State Film Award for Best Actress in 1994. Despite two failed marriages she continues to inspire with her candid reflections on life.