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Sheela and Prem Nazir, legends of Malayalam cinema, appeared in 130 films together, earning a Guinness World Record. Their partnership produced over 50 major hits
In a single, unforgettable day, she played Prem Nazir’s girlfriend, wife, sister, and mother across 4 different films, with just two-hour breaks in between, an unmatched feat in Indian cinema. (News18)
In the vast and vibrant world of Indian cinema, numerous on-screen pairings have captured the hearts of audiences. Iconic duos such as Sivaji Ganesan and Saroja Devi, Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol, and Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan have all left indelible marks on the industry. While many of these pairs have shared the screen in a handful of films, one extraordinary partnership stands out for its sheer volume and enduring popularity.
That distinction belongs to Malayalam cinema legends Sheela, affectionately known as ‘Semmeen Sheela’, and Prem Nazir. This prolific duo appeared together in an astonishing 130 films, a feat that has earned them a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. Their collaboration, which spanned from 1962 to 1981, produced a remarkable number of box office successes, with over 50 of their films becoming major hits.
A Versatile And Historic Partnership
Sheela began her cinematic journey in Tamil cinema, making her debut alongside the legendary MG Ramachandran in the film Pasam (1962). It was during this period that she received her first offer to act in a Malayalam film, marking the beginning of a historic career.
Her professional relationship with Prem Nazir became a defining feature of Malayalam cinema. Over the years, Sheela portrayed an impressive range of characters opposite Nazir, including his romantic partner, wife, sister, and even mother.
This remarkable versatility reached its peak on a single, unforgettable day when she appeared in four different film shoots. All conducted in Chennai, she portrayed Prem Nazir’s girlfriend in the morning, his wife by afternoon, his sister in the evening, and finally, his mother by night, all with only two-hour breaks in between. This extraordinary achievement remains unmatched in the annals of Indian cinema.
End Of An Era
Sheela retired from the film industry in 1983, having firmly established herself as one of South India’s most accomplished actresses. Prem Nazir, who holds the record for acting in over 700 films, passed away in 1989 and was posthumously honoured with the Padma Bhushan.
Together, Prem Nazir and Sheela hold the unparalleled distinction of being the most prolific on-screen pairing in Indian cinema history, a legacy that continues to inspire generations of film enthusiasts and actors alike.
- Location :
Kerala, India, India