India, Nov. 7 -- Sulakshana Pandit, one of the front-ranking actresses and playback singers of 1970s Bollywood known for her graceful screen presence and soulful voice, passed away in Mumbai on Wednesday night after a prolonged illness. She was 71.

Family sources said Pandit breathed her last at Nanavati Hospital, where she had been undergoing treatment for some time.

Her funeral will be held in Mumbai, with members of her illustrious musical family - including composer brothers Jatin-Lalit - expected to attend.

In an era dominated by glamour and melody, she carved out a niche as a leading lady of emotional depth and a singer of classical refinement.

As an actress, she starred opposite some of the biggest names of the decade - Sanjeev...