Simple Kapadia, a talented personality known for her acting debut opposite Rajesh Khanna and her National Award-winning work as a costume designer, left a significant mark on Bollywood before her untimely passing.
From Screen to Style: A Unique Journey
Simple Kapadia stepped into the acting world at just 18, making her debut in 1977’s “Anurodh” alongside the late superstar Rajesh Khanna. Interestingly, she was the younger sister of Dimple Kapadia, who had debuted four years earlier at the same age.
Simple found working with Khanna a bit unusual, as she knew him so well personally. Despite this, she continued to act in several films, including “Chakravyuha” (1987) with Rajesh Khanna, “Ahsaas” (1979), “Man Pasand” (1980), and “Lootmaar” (1980).
Her filmography also includes “Shakka” (1981) with Jeetendra, “Zamane Ko Dikhana Hai” (1982), “Dulha Bikta Hai” (1982), “Jeevan Dhaara” (1982), and “Rehguzar” (1985). This acting phase showcased her versatility on screen.
Behind the Scenes: A National Award Winner
Simple Kapadia eventually transitioned her career to costume design, where she truly excelled. Her talent was recognized with a prestigious National Award for Best Costume Design for the 1993 film “Rudaali,” which coincidentally starred her sister, Dimple Kapadia.
She lent her creative vision to many other prominent films. Simple designed outfits for Sridevi in the 1990 superhero film “Ajooba” and styled Juhi Chawla in Yash Chopra’s 1993 thriller “Darr.”
Her work extended to her niece, Twinkle Khanna, for her 1995 debut “Barsaat.” Other notable projects include Meenakshi Seshadri’s look in “Ghatak” (1996), Kamal Haasan and Tabu in “Chachi 420” (1998), and Ayesha Takia in Imtiaz Ali’s debut, “Socha Na Tha” (2005). Her last work as a costume designer was for the 2006 crime drama “Gafla.”
A Life Cut Short, A Legacy Continued
Simple Kapadia faced a battle with cancer, being diagnosed in 2006. Despite her illness, she continued to work, demonstrating remarkable resilience.
She passed away in Mumbai in 2009 at the young age of 41. Simple had married Rajinder Singh Shetty in 1992, and though the marriage was short-lived, they had a son, Karan Kapadia.
Karan made his acting debut in the 2019 action thriller “Blank,” which also featured Sunny Deol. His film release came a decade after his mother’s passing, a poignant tribute to her enduring presence.
- Simple Kapadia began her career as an actress, debuting opposite Rajesh Khanna.
- She became a highly respected costume designer, winning a National Award for “Rudaali.”
- She styled top stars like Sridevi, Juhi Chawla, and Kamal Haasan.
- Simple Kapadia passed away from cancer at 41, ten years before her son, Karan Kapadia, made his acting debut.
Simple Kapadia’s journey from a promising actress to an acclaimed costume designer showcases a remarkable blend of talent and dedication in the world of Indian cinema.
