Veteran British actress Dame Maggie Smith, cherished for her iconic roles in film and television, passed away on Friday at the age of 89 in a London hospital. Her extraordinary career, which spanned six decades, left an indelible mark on global audiences through memorable performances in beloved projects such as the Harry Potter series, Downton Abbey, and The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. Smith’s passing has drawn heartfelt tributes from actors across the world, including Bollywood stars Kareena Kapoor Khan, Ananya Panday, and independent photographer Ishika Mohan Motwane, each expressing admiration for the Oscar-winning actress.
Kareena Kapoor Khan took to Instagram to honor Smith’s legacy by sharing a poignant quote from the actress’s beloved role as the Dowager Countess of Grantham in Downton Abbey. Kapoor posted, “Forever in power,” followed by the famous line, “I am a woman dear. I can be as contrary as I choose,” perfectly capturing the strength and wit Smith brought to the screen.
Ananya Panday also paid her respects via Instagram, sharing a post about the legendary actress’s demise and adding a simple red heart emoji to express her grief. Both actresses have often spoken about being inspired by strong female characters, and Smith’s body of work undoubtedly served as an influential beacon in their journeys.
In a more personal reflection, photographer Ishika Mohan Motwane, who had the privilege of photographing Smith during the filming of The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel in Udaipur, recalled her experiences with the seasoned actress. In an Instagram post, Ishika shared how photographing Smith was both a challenge and a delight, as the actress didn’t enjoy being photographed but maintained a humorous and fiery demeanor. Ishika fondly remembered Smith’s sharp wit, recalling how the veteran actress would listen intently for the camera’s shutter sound, always seeking out the photographer mid-take. Despite the tension of being caught, Ishika successfully captured stunning images without disrupting Smith’s flow.
“She was a force to reckon with,” Ishika wrote, reminiscing about the star’s presence on set. “I could sense her whip her head around at the speed of light to attempt to find me… I nearly felt like the hunted, and she the hunter,” she humorously noted, revealing the playful dynamic they shared. The photographer concluded her tribute by sharing the treasured memory of receiving a signed Downton Abbey DVD from Smith after filming, a gift that solidified their unique bond.
Other Bollywood stars also joined in remembering the beloved actress. Aditi Rao Hydari reflected on Smith’s unparalleled contributions to cinema, calling her an “irreplaceable treasure.” Sonam Kapoor expressed admiration by writing, “What a dame, what a lady, and what a life,” in her Instagram Story. Parineeti Chopra added to the chorus of tributes, hailing Smith as “a legend forever.”
Smith’s passing has left a deep void in the film industry, but her performances will continue to inspire generations. Despite her health struggles, including battles with breast cancer and Graves’ disease, Smith’s resilience and brilliance shone through in every role she undertook. From the beloved Professor Minerva McGonagall in Harry Potter to the spirited Muriel Donnelly in The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, her legacy as a captivating, versatile actress will live on.
