Who Is Silk Smitha? Age, Biography and Wiki
Silk Smitha was born on December 2, 1960, and tragically passed away on September 23, 1996, at the age of 35. Originally named Vijayalakshmi, she gained fame in the South Indian film industry through her alluring performances and unique charm. Smitha starred in over 200 films from the late 1970s to the mid-1990s, becoming a cultural icon and a symbol of sensuality in Indian cinema. Her life story, filled with challenges and triumphs, continues to inspire many.
| Occupation | Movie Actress |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | December 2, 1960 |
| Age | 35 Years |
| Birth Place | Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, India |
| Horoscope | Sagittarius |
| Country | India |
| Date of death | 23 September, 1996 |
| Died Place | Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India |
Popularity
Silk Smitha's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Silk Smitha was noted for her stunning figure and expressive features. Although the exact figures may vary, her estimated height was around 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm), with a weight approximately 55 kg (121 lbs) at the peak of her career. Her striking measurements of 36-24-36 (in inches) contributed to her on-screen presence and allure.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Silk Smitha's personal life was often the subject of much speculation. She maintained a level of secrecy about her relationships, and there are few records of her dating history. Throughout her life, there were rumored romances within the film industry; however, she reportedly never married. As Silk's legacy is celebrated, her enigmatic love life adds to her intrigue.
Her husband and in-laws abused her and within to years she walked out of this marriage and ran away, working as a housemaid to support herself. She then moved to Chennai to live with her sympathetic aunt, working as a make-up or "touch-up" artist.
Net Worth and Salary
At the time of her passing, Silk Smitha's estimated net worth was around $1 million, primarily accrued through her prolific film career. While exact figures vary, she was one of the highest-paid actresses in her time, earning a lucrative salary for her roles. In 2025, her legacy likely continues to inspire tributes, remakes, and retrospectives that contribute to her enduring wealth, especially through memorabilia and film rights.
Career, Business and Investments
Silk Smitha's career spanned nearly two decades, during which she emerged as a sought-after actress in many regional languages, including Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada films. Celebrated for her bold roles and ability to engage audiences, she starred in numerous hits that elevated her status in the industry. Following her acting career, there are indications that she was involved in various business ventures, including film production.
Her impact on Indian cinema paved the way for countless aspiring artists and the continued popularity of her films ensures her legacy is financially fruitful.
In a career spanning 18 years, she appeared in over 450 films. Smitha was part of several successful dance numbers in the 1980s Indian films. She entered the industry as a supporting actress, and was first noticed for her role as "Silk" in the 1979 Tamil film, Vandichakkaram.
Social Network
In today's digital age, Silk Smitha's legacy is perpetuated through social media platforms where fans share quotes, clips, and tributes to the actress. Various fan pages on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter celebrate her iconic status, allowing younger generations to connect with her work and influence. Additionally, fan clubs and forums discuss her films, life, and the impact she had on the industry.
She was punctual (arriving in movie sets well before the shooting commences), responsible, and ambitious (having learned to speak the English language fluently despite her limited education). She was also described as having a "soft" and "child like" personality by her friends and fans. She was skilled with costume design, makeup and made it her profession before entering the industry.
Education
While specific details about Silk Smitha's education are scarce, it is known that she faced numerous challenges in her early life. She grew up in a rural environment in Tamil Nadu, which influenced her drive to succeed in acting. Her determination and talent led her to the film industry, where she proved that education in formal institutions isn't the only path to success.
Due to family poverty, she had to drop out of school during the fourth standard. Her family pushed her into marriage with an older man at the age of 14, despite being underage, due to their financial situation.
