Vijayta Pandit, known for her role in the blockbuster ‘Love Story,’ comes from a musical family that includes the late Pandit Jasraj, composers Jatin-Lalit, and actress Sulakshana Pandit.
In a recent interview with Lehren Retro, the singer-actor reflected on her early days in the entertainment industry, her dream debut in ‘Love Story,’ her financial challenges, and the untimely passing of her husband, the late music composer-singer Aadesh Srivastava.
Adesh Srivastava passed away in 2015 after battling cancer. Since his death, his son Avitesh Srivastava has been striving to carve out a niche for himself in the entertainment industry. Recently, Adesh’s wife, veteran actress Vijayta Pandit, made a heartfelt appeal to Bollywood icons Shahrukh Khan ‘King Khan’ and Amitabh Bachchan, asking for their support in helping her son find success in the film world.
Vijayta Pandit described her late husband’s close relationship with Shahrukh Khan and Big B. She shared an emotional moment from Adesh’s time in the hospital, when Shahrukh had come to visit him. According to Vijayta, Adesh was too weak to speak but held Shahrukh’s hand and gestured toward their son, Avitesh. Though no words were exchanged, the meaning was clear—Adesh was asking Shahrukh to look after his son after he passed.
Addressing Shahrukh directly during the interview, Vijayta said, “The phone number you gave us during that time is now switched off. I want to remind you, Shahrukh, that Adesh was a close friend. Now is the time we need you. Please come forward and help my son.”
Avitesh is currently working on his debut film titled Sirf Ek Friday. Vijayta explained that while her son is making progress on his own, he could greatly benefit from a little push from someone as influential as Shahrukh.
Vijayta also highlighted the contribution of her brothers, Jatin and Lalit Pandit, in Shahrukh Khan’s early career. The famous music composer duo played a significant role in the success of many films that catapulted Shahrukh to stardom. Their work includes iconic soundtracks for movies like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai, and Raju Ban Gaya Gentleman.
Recalling those days, Vijayta remarked, “Today, Shahrukh is one of the biggest stars in the world, but there was a time when my brothers played a key role in his success. Now, it would be wonderful if Shahrukh could return that favor by helping out our family, especially my son, who is trying hard to make his mark in the industry.”
In addition to her appeal to Shahrukh Khan, Vijayta also spoke about the close bond that her late husband shared with Amitabh Bachchan. The two had worked together extensively, creating music for many of Amitabh’s projects. Vijayta recounted that Amitabh had been a frequent supporter of Avitesh in the past, attending key events like the launch of Avitesh’s first song. However, she expressed her sadness that Amitabh had since lost touch with the family.
Speaking directly to Big-B, she said, “Aadesh and you shared a deep bond. You both worked day and night together. I remember how you always showed up for any of Avitesh’s events. But now, you’ve stopped coming, and we’ve lost contact. Aadesh did a lot for you, and while we are not asking for financial support, you could still help by lending your guidance or mentorship to Avitesh.”
Vijayta’s emotional plea was not just a reminder of the personal connections these Bollywood giants shared with Adesh, but also a request for support during a time of need. Avitesh, although working hard on his debut project, could benefit immensely from the encouragement and backing of industry veterans like Shahrukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan.
Avitesh Srivastava, the son of Adesh and Vijayta, is working to establish himself as a filmmaker and musician. His debut film Sirf Ek Friday is already in progress, and the young talent is determined to follow in his father’s footsteps while carving out his own identity. However, Vijayta’s appeal indicates that despite Avitesh’s independent efforts, there is still a desire for guidance and support from family friends like Shahrukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan, who have long-standing ties with the Srivastava family.
For Vijayta, this is more than just a professional plea—it’s a personal one. She believes that her late husband’s friends can make a significant difference in her son’s career by offering a helping hand, just as her family once did for them.
