Meena Kumari

Born Mahjabeen Bano, 1 August 1933- 31 March 1972(died at the age of 38). She was an Indian actress & poet who worked in Hindi films. Known as the ‘Tragedy Queen’ she is regarded among the finest & greatest actresses in the history of Indian cinema.

In a career spanning 33 years from child artist to adult, she starred in over 90 films. She was a tender hearted person who put sufferings before self.

On way back from Mahabaleshwar, her car met with an accident. Her hand was injured. She injured a finger of her left hand. It was put back but it remained twisted. The medical science wasn’t as developed. Plastic surgery was not possible.

She hid her fingers, hand behind her clothes, pallu of her saree or in her hair. Being not able to show a hand! Imagine how she must have faced the camera.

‘Dushman’ was being shot. In this film she was a widow. Lead actors Rajesh Khanna & Mumtaz. The scene was when she hears of her husband’s accidental death. She had to be there. But she was so sick then that she could n’t come out of her room.

Dulalji was in a fix. She called him with a cameraman & gave the shot. She was ready with full makeup. It was to be her last shot.

In Jan 72, Dushman was released & became a hit. Feb 72 ‘Pakizaa ‘was released . She died in March 72.

Amitabh Bachchan remembers her from his ‘Saat Hindustani’ days. He is a big fan of Meena Kumariji & Wahidaji. Ahmed Abbas & Meena Kumariji were watching the movie. He heard of it & rushed to the theatre.

He was thrilled to watch her from behind. The movie ended & she asked ‘Who is the tallboy ?” Abbasji said , ‘Amitabh Bachchan! He is standing behind you ‘. She turned & said’ Amitabh come here!’.

Amitabh ji still remembers the moment. A tingling sensation that coursed through his body upon hearing his name. She said, ‘You have done a good job’.

‘Aaj hum apni duvaonka asar dekhehnge ‘ Wish she was here today to see what her blessings have done. The tallboy never looked back & scaled heights unfathomable!

Rumi Jafri has written a beautiful article in her memory. We read , appreciate & bear our loss.