Zeenat Aman Biography
Zeenat Aman was born to a Hindu mother and a Muslim father Amanullah who was one of the writers for the classic "Mughal-e-Azam", on November 19th, 1951. Zeenat was an only child and her parents divorced when she was a little girl. A graduate of Saint Xavier's school in Bombay. Her father passed away when she was 13. Zeenat won a scholarship to study in California. Upon her return she started working as reporter and was introduced to modeling by friends. Her most prominent ad campaign was the Pond's 7 day to better complexion. Zeenat entered the Miss India contest and was the third runner up, to go to Miss Asia/Pacific a title she later won - being the first Indian to ever win that title (the same title was brought to Indian a second time in 2000 by Diya Mirza).
Zeenat was introduced to the movie screen by O.P. Ralhan in Hulchul with Kabir Bedi and later repeated by again by Ralhan in a cameo in Hungama. Both films sunk without trace. Zeenat was the third choice for the junkie 'Janice/Jasbeel' character in Dev Anand's 'Hare Rama Hare Krishna',(1971) opposite himself and the then reigning queen Mumtaz. Upon completion of shooting, Zeenat began packing bags to move to Malta with her mother and German step father (Mr. Heinz) for his job posting. When Dev Anand received feedback on rushes for the film, he insisted that Zeenat and her parents hold off on the move until the film is released and its fate decided, with reluctance they agreed. The film was an instant hit and Zeenat walked away with all the accolades shunning Mumtaz - never before had the Hindi cinema seen a newcomer overshadow the reigning queen. She won the Filmfare Award as Best Supporting Actress. For the first time, the Indian audience accepted a woman who played a 'less than pure' role in a movie.
Zeenat went on to revolutionize the Hindi film actress. She was the first Indian actress who refused bouffants, cropped a bob at the height of her career and hardly appeared in saris and bindis and could easily carry off a bikini dress without looking vulgar. She took on roles of the modern urban Indian woman, who made no excuses and took no prisoners. Her characters contemplated abortion to pursue a career (Ajnabee (1974) or dumping a poor lover to pursue a rich man (Roti Kapada Aur Makaan (1974), and still manage to win audience's approval. She pursued Vijay Arora by strumming her guitar singing "Churaliya hai" in the Nasir Hussain's hit film "Yaadon Ki Barat" (1973), fought alongside Amitabh Bachchan as a revenge-seeking action heroine in "Don" (1978). Even though Raj Kapoor's "Satyam Shivam Sundaram" (1977) didn't do well, Zeenat was able to break barriers by kissing her leading man on the mouth for the first time on the Indian screen post-Independence and receiving a Best Actress Filmfare nomination. She received another Filmfare nomination as Best Actress for the controversial hit film "Insaaf Ka Tarazu" (1980) where she played a justice-seeking rape survivor. Zeenat began a new trend, helping launch careers for male actors - something Indian actresses never did. She signed Insaf Ka Tarazu with then unknown Raj Babbar and Deepak Prashar, signed films opposite even Mithun, Kanwaljeet Singh (Ashanti) and Tariq Ali (Hum Kissi se Kum Nahin and Yadon Ki Baarat). Rajesh Khanna-Zeenat Aman were paired opposite each-other in 4 films and 3 were blockbusters and Shashi Kapoor-Zeenat gave 7 super-hit films off the 10 they did together.She had a tumultuous first marriage to Sanjay Khan which ended in divorce. Zeenat had a long string of super successes throughout her career but towards the end of her career she took on mature roles in Bhavani Junction, Haathon ki Lakeerain, Bandhan Kacche Dhagon Ka etc. the movies did not fare that well at the box office and by late 80's cinema shifted its focus to front bench whistlers. At that time Zeenat settled in matrimony with fellow actor Mazhar Khan and gave birth to two sons, turning down multiple film offers. The marriage ended bitterly in divorce, but soon after Mazhar died, and Zeenat's feelings about him in the press were much kinder. Zeenat's contribution to the Indian cinema is definitely recognized though not fully as yet, but in time to come she will definitely be remembered as the first person to introduce a lot to India and add several dimensions to Indian women. In summary "She revolutionized the portrayal of Indian Women" in its cinema.
Spouse
Mazhar Khan (11 October 1985 - 16 September 1998) (his death) 2 children
Sanjay (Abbass) Khan (1980 - 1981) (divorced)
Trivia
Winner in Miss Asia contest.
Dev Anand launched her fim career in Hare Rama Hare Krishna.
Had an affair with Sanjay Khan before being assaulted by his wife Zarine Khan.
Daughter of Aman.
Personal Quotes
Love is a spring in the air and an extra spring in bed
Saturday, 11 February 2012
Waheeda Rehman Biography
Waheeda Rehman Biography
Waheeda was born in a Urdu-speaking family in Chengalpattu-Tamil Nadu, India, on May 14, 1936. Her father was the District Magistrate which led him to be posted in several places. Tragedy visited her in 1948 when her dad passed away. Her mom passed away in 1955.
A year after her dad's death she appeared in a Telegu movie 'Rojulu Marayi'. Her role was as an dancing child artiste. She is proficient in Bharat Natyam. It was here that she was spotted by noted Bollywood actor and film-maker, Guru Dutt, who gave her a lead role in C.I.D.. She went on to appear in 'Pyaasa', 'Kagaz Ke Phool', 'Sahib Biwi Aur Ghulam', 'Chaudvi Ka Chand', 'Bees Saal Baad', 'Teesri Kasam' just to name a few, in a career that spanned from 1949 through to 2006. She has acted as a child artiste, a leading lady, then switched to character appearances. She has procured the Best Film Actress Award in 1965 for her role in 'Guide', and then again in 1968 for 'Neel Kamal'.
She had co-starred with Kamaljit Singh in 'Shagun', and later married him on April 27, 1974, and moved to his farmhouse in Bangalore. She subsequently gave birth to a son, Sohail, and then to a daughter, Kashvi. When Kamaljit became ill, she considerably reduced her commitments in Bollywood, and the family re-located to 'Sahil', located near Bandra Bandstand, Bombay. Kamaljit passed away on November 21, 2000. Sohail has achieved his M.B.A. and is working in a Private Limited Company, while Kashvi is a Jewelery Designer.
She is very friendly with former actress Nanda and both spend a lot of time together, and often go out to eat out, including Dahi, Bhel, and Pani Puri right outside Elco Arcade in Bandra, West.
A Taurus, Waheeda went on to produce her very own film 'Om Jai Jagadish' which met with considerable success. She went on to act in 'Water', 'Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara', '15 Park Avenue', and 'Rang De Basanti'
No less a personality than Amitabh Bachchan himself has claimed Waheeda Rehman to be his favorite actress. She combined the classic Islamic beauty with an extraordinary grace, talent and a truly transcendent appeal that ranked her among the pantheon of Bollywood's elite actresses. And few could dance better than she could!
She was born into a traditional Muslim family on 14 May 1936, in Chengalpattu,Tamil Nadu. Growing up, she was trained in dancing, especially the Bharatnatyam dance. Her first films were Jayasimha (1955) and Rojulu Marayi (1955), both in Telegu. Both films became a huge success and established her as a hit-heroine, but it was a song in the latter film that got Rehman the attention of Guru Dutt, one of the greatest directors in Bollywood history. He took her to Bombay and cast her as a vamp in his crime thriller C.I.D. (1956) - and the result was one of the most stunning debuts ever made in a Hindi film. As a mysterious woman named Kamini, she added a thrill to the whole film and it remains one of the most seductive and memorable roles of her career.
Amazed (and enraptured) by her beauty and talent, Guru Dutt cast her in all of his films. Thus, Rehman gave a mesmerizing performance in Pyaasa (1957) as Gulab, the prostitute with a heart of gold, and she stole the hearts of audiences as Jameela, a shy Muslim girl in the romance Chaudhvin Ka Chand (1961). But by then she was involved in an affair with Guru Dutt and this affair led to the disintegration of Dutt's marriage - and soon the two of them broke apart after their last collaboration, Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam (1962) (which was in fact done under some strain on Rehman's part). Their ill-fated romance was portrayed in the semi-autobiographical _Kaagaz Ke Phool (1960)_. Guru Dutt, unable to completely forget her, committed suicide in 1964.
Moving on after Guru Dutt, Rehman worked with the acclaimed director Satyajit Ray in The Expedition (1962) and consolidated her position as a top Bollywood star with her commercial successes Bees Saal Baad (1962) and _Kohra (1964)_. Then she did _Guide (1965/I)_ - a film that took her to the peak of her career. In the conservative 1960s, it was a daring role for her to play, and yet the gamble paid off - her performance as Rosie, a woman who leaves her husband for her lover, is ranked as her best ever! And to think that when she did the film, she was certain she would never, ever be able to do another film again!
Unfortunately, after _Guide (1965/I)_, matters didn't really work out. While commercial films like Ram Aur Shyam (1967) and Patthar Ke Sanam (1967) proved to be huge successes, her offbeat films Teesri Kasam (1967) and Reshma and Shera (1972) bombed, in spite of her critically acclaimed performances in those films. She had achieved too much too soon in her professional life, and so she began to make achievements in her personal life as well. In 1974, Rehman married Kamaljit, a businessman who had tried (in vain) to make it in films and moved to Bangalore.
She later cut down on her acting assignments, preferring to market her own brand of breakfast cereal and lead a contented life in a Bangalore farmhouse. She turned to supporting roles, often playing Amitabh Bachchan's mother (although there was one notable performance as his wife in _ Kabhi Kabhie - Love Is Life (1976)_), and gave a memorable curtain call as a female guardian in Lamhe (1991). However, of late she has gone back to playing maternal roles, most notably in Rang De Basanti (2006).
IMDb Mini Biography By: Q. Leo Rahman
Trivia
Her best friend is actress Nanda, and they had co-starred in Kala Bazar (1960)
Waheeda was born in a Urdu-speaking family in Chengalpattu-Tamil Nadu, India, on May 14, 1936. Her father was the District Magistrate which led him to be posted in several places. Tragedy visited her in 1948 when her dad passed away. Her mom passed away in 1955.
A year after her dad's death she appeared in a Telegu movie 'Rojulu Marayi'. Her role was as an dancing child artiste. She is proficient in Bharat Natyam. It was here that she was spotted by noted Bollywood actor and film-maker, Guru Dutt, who gave her a lead role in C.I.D.. She went on to appear in 'Pyaasa', 'Kagaz Ke Phool', 'Sahib Biwi Aur Ghulam', 'Chaudvi Ka Chand', 'Bees Saal Baad', 'Teesri Kasam' just to name a few, in a career that spanned from 1949 through to 2006. She has acted as a child artiste, a leading lady, then switched to character appearances. She has procured the Best Film Actress Award in 1965 for her role in 'Guide', and then again in 1968 for 'Neel Kamal'.
She had co-starred with Kamaljit Singh in 'Shagun', and later married him on April 27, 1974, and moved to his farmhouse in Bangalore. She subsequently gave birth to a son, Sohail, and then to a daughter, Kashvi. When Kamaljit became ill, she considerably reduced her commitments in Bollywood, and the family re-located to 'Sahil', located near Bandra Bandstand, Bombay. Kamaljit passed away on November 21, 2000. Sohail has achieved his M.B.A. and is working in a Private Limited Company, while Kashvi is a Jewelery Designer.
She is very friendly with former actress Nanda and both spend a lot of time together, and often go out to eat out, including Dahi, Bhel, and Pani Puri right outside Elco Arcade in Bandra, West.
A Taurus, Waheeda went on to produce her very own film 'Om Jai Jagadish' which met with considerable success. She went on to act in 'Water', 'Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara', '15 Park Avenue', and 'Rang De Basanti'
No less a personality than Amitabh Bachchan himself has claimed Waheeda Rehman to be his favorite actress. She combined the classic Islamic beauty with an extraordinary grace, talent and a truly transcendent appeal that ranked her among the pantheon of Bollywood's elite actresses. And few could dance better than she could!
She was born into a traditional Muslim family on 14 May 1936, in Chengalpattu,Tamil Nadu. Growing up, she was trained in dancing, especially the Bharatnatyam dance. Her first films were Jayasimha (1955) and Rojulu Marayi (1955), both in Telegu. Both films became a huge success and established her as a hit-heroine, but it was a song in the latter film that got Rehman the attention of Guru Dutt, one of the greatest directors in Bollywood history. He took her to Bombay and cast her as a vamp in his crime thriller C.I.D. (1956) - and the result was one of the most stunning debuts ever made in a Hindi film. As a mysterious woman named Kamini, she added a thrill to the whole film and it remains one of the most seductive and memorable roles of her career.
Amazed (and enraptured) by her beauty and talent, Guru Dutt cast her in all of his films. Thus, Rehman gave a mesmerizing performance in Pyaasa (1957) as Gulab, the prostitute with a heart of gold, and she stole the hearts of audiences as Jameela, a shy Muslim girl in the romance Chaudhvin Ka Chand (1961). But by then she was involved in an affair with Guru Dutt and this affair led to the disintegration of Dutt's marriage - and soon the two of them broke apart after their last collaboration, Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam (1962) (which was in fact done under some strain on Rehman's part). Their ill-fated romance was portrayed in the semi-autobiographical _Kaagaz Ke Phool (1960)_. Guru Dutt, unable to completely forget her, committed suicide in 1964.
Moving on after Guru Dutt, Rehman worked with the acclaimed director Satyajit Ray in The Expedition (1962) and consolidated her position as a top Bollywood star with her commercial successes Bees Saal Baad (1962) and _Kohra (1964)_. Then she did _Guide (1965/I)_ - a film that took her to the peak of her career. In the conservative 1960s, it was a daring role for her to play, and yet the gamble paid off - her performance as Rosie, a woman who leaves her husband for her lover, is ranked as her best ever! And to think that when she did the film, she was certain she would never, ever be able to do another film again!
Unfortunately, after _Guide (1965/I)_, matters didn't really work out. While commercial films like Ram Aur Shyam (1967) and Patthar Ke Sanam (1967) proved to be huge successes, her offbeat films Teesri Kasam (1967) and Reshma and Shera (1972) bombed, in spite of her critically acclaimed performances in those films. She had achieved too much too soon in her professional life, and so she began to make achievements in her personal life as well. In 1974, Rehman married Kamaljit, a businessman who had tried (in vain) to make it in films and moved to Bangalore.
She later cut down on her acting assignments, preferring to market her own brand of breakfast cereal and lead a contented life in a Bangalore farmhouse. She turned to supporting roles, often playing Amitabh Bachchan's mother (although there was one notable performance as his wife in _ Kabhi Kabhie - Love Is Life (1976)_), and gave a memorable curtain call as a female guardian in Lamhe (1991). However, of late she has gone back to playing maternal roles, most notably in Rang De Basanti (2006).
IMDb Mini Biography By: Q. Leo Rahman
Trivia
Her best friend is actress Nanda, and they had co-starred in Kala Bazar (1960)
Vidya Balan Biography
Vidya Balan Biography
Vidya was born in Palghat, Kerala, India. Her family consists of her dad, P.R. Balan, who is the Vice-President of ETC Channel; mom - a home-maker, and an elder sister, Priya, who is married to Kedar. She also has an aunt by the name of Raji Raju.
The Balan family re-located to live at Road No. 11, near Ambedkar Garden, Chembur, Bombay, when Vidya was very young. She studied in St. Anthony's Convent School, and thereafter in St. Xavier's College from where she obtained a degree in Sociology. She then went on to obtain a Masters degree in Sociology from Bombay University.
She also studied and performed in Prithvi Theaters' workshops. Due to tradition of most Tamil-Iyer families, Vidya and her Priya learned Carnatic dance form during their early childhood days, but Vidya opted out as the dance classes took place early on Sunday mornings and as she is not an early riser.
Considerably overweight, rather tomboyish, during her school-days, and an ardent fan of Shahrukh Khan, she decided to shed those extra pounds when she elected to opt for modeling and movies.
Facing disappointment after being rejected by a Tamil producer, she nevertheless persisted until she got her first break with a Malyalam movie 'Chakram' opposite Mohanlal, however, the project was shelved, and she had to wait until 1998 to debut in a Surf Excel commercial. She then went on to appear in several commercials directed by Pradeep Sarkar. She completed nearly 90 such ads.
She appeared in three music videos for Pankaj Udhas, Euphoria, and Shubha Mudgal in supporting roles. She then also appeared in two TV serials Ekta Kapoor's 'Hum Paanch', and Ashok Pandit's 'Hanste Khelte'.
During 2003 she was signed-up to play a role in a Bengali movie 'Bhaalo Theko' opposite Joy Sengupta. This project was completed during the year 2006, and was a considerable hit.
Then during 2006 Vidya was approached by Vidhu Vinod Chopra during a pop-concert in Mumbai to play a lead role in 'Parineeta'. She then had to undergo 17 make-up shoots and 40 screen tests before being chosen for this role. All this hard work did result in success as 'Parineeta' was very well received so much so that the Tamil producer, who had previously rejected her, invited her to appear in a 'Dasavatharam' opposite Kamal Hassan, and now it was Vidya's turn to reject this offer which eventually went to 'Asin'.
Apart from acting, Vidya occupies herself for supporting education for young Indians by promoting children's' books; is associated with Americans for Aids Research; with Hale House - that provides support and housing for children born with HIV and drug abuse; as well as hosting forums and attending events for Harvard Aids Institute.
Single, never involved in any relationship or scandal, she claims to get along well with both female and male friends.
An ardent devotee of Bhagwan Shri Sai Baba, she makes it a point to attend Mandirs every Thursday. She is proficient in Tamil, Malyalam, Hindi, English, Bengali, and can also read Urdu.
Trivia
A Tamilian from Kerala, she hails from the Iyer community in Palghat, on the border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
Did her schooling from St. Antony's School and later on at St. Xavier's College where she graduated in Sociology. She soon started work on her MA from Mumbai University when she was offered a role in a Malayalam film starring Mohanlal, but it was later shelved due to issues with the director.
Speaks English, Hindi, Malayalam, and Tamil. After filming Parineeta (2005), can also speak Bengali quite well.
Listed as number 8 of 'Top Bollywood Actresses' of 2006. (rediff.com, 8-25-2006)
Personal Quotes
Neither of my first two Malayalam films got completed, and I walked out of the third, a Tamil film, because I was not comfortable. I was replaced in another Tamil film with the excuse that I could not act. They made me feel ugly to the point where I was scared to look in the mirror. In retrospect I thank God, and by God's grace today the going is good.
Vidya was born in Palghat, Kerala, India. Her family consists of her dad, P.R. Balan, who is the Vice-President of ETC Channel; mom - a home-maker, and an elder sister, Priya, who is married to Kedar. She also has an aunt by the name of Raji Raju.
The Balan family re-located to live at Road No. 11, near Ambedkar Garden, Chembur, Bombay, when Vidya was very young. She studied in St. Anthony's Convent School, and thereafter in St. Xavier's College from where she obtained a degree in Sociology. She then went on to obtain a Masters degree in Sociology from Bombay University.
She also studied and performed in Prithvi Theaters' workshops. Due to tradition of most Tamil-Iyer families, Vidya and her Priya learned Carnatic dance form during their early childhood days, but Vidya opted out as the dance classes took place early on Sunday mornings and as she is not an early riser.
Considerably overweight, rather tomboyish, during her school-days, and an ardent fan of Shahrukh Khan, she decided to shed those extra pounds when she elected to opt for modeling and movies.
Facing disappointment after being rejected by a Tamil producer, she nevertheless persisted until she got her first break with a Malyalam movie 'Chakram' opposite Mohanlal, however, the project was shelved, and she had to wait until 1998 to debut in a Surf Excel commercial. She then went on to appear in several commercials directed by Pradeep Sarkar. She completed nearly 90 such ads.
She appeared in three music videos for Pankaj Udhas, Euphoria, and Shubha Mudgal in supporting roles. She then also appeared in two TV serials Ekta Kapoor's 'Hum Paanch', and Ashok Pandit's 'Hanste Khelte'.
During 2003 she was signed-up to play a role in a Bengali movie 'Bhaalo Theko' opposite Joy Sengupta. This project was completed during the year 2006, and was a considerable hit.
Then during 2006 Vidya was approached by Vidhu Vinod Chopra during a pop-concert in Mumbai to play a lead role in 'Parineeta'. She then had to undergo 17 make-up shoots and 40 screen tests before being chosen for this role. All this hard work did result in success as 'Parineeta' was very well received so much so that the Tamil producer, who had previously rejected her, invited her to appear in a 'Dasavatharam' opposite Kamal Hassan, and now it was Vidya's turn to reject this offer which eventually went to 'Asin'.
Apart from acting, Vidya occupies herself for supporting education for young Indians by promoting children's' books; is associated with Americans for Aids Research; with Hale House - that provides support and housing for children born with HIV and drug abuse; as well as hosting forums and attending events for Harvard Aids Institute.
Single, never involved in any relationship or scandal, she claims to get along well with both female and male friends.
An ardent devotee of Bhagwan Shri Sai Baba, she makes it a point to attend Mandirs every Thursday. She is proficient in Tamil, Malyalam, Hindi, English, Bengali, and can also read Urdu.
Trivia
A Tamilian from Kerala, she hails from the Iyer community in Palghat, on the border of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
Did her schooling from St. Antony's School and later on at St. Xavier's College where she graduated in Sociology. She soon started work on her MA from Mumbai University when she was offered a role in a Malayalam film starring Mohanlal, but it was later shelved due to issues with the director.
Speaks English, Hindi, Malayalam, and Tamil. After filming Parineeta (2005), can also speak Bengali quite well.
Listed as number 8 of 'Top Bollywood Actresses' of 2006. (rediff.com, 8-25-2006)
Personal Quotes
Neither of my first two Malayalam films got completed, and I walked out of the third, a Tamil film, because I was not comfortable. I was replaced in another Tamil film with the excuse that I could not act. They made me feel ugly to the point where I was scared to look in the mirror. In retrospect I thank God, and by God's grace today the going is good.
Vaijantimala Biography Vaijantimala Biography
Vaijantimala Biography
Vyjanthimala was born in a Tamil-speaking family in Chennai, India, on August 13, 1936.
At the age of 4, she got the rare chance of performing a dance before the Pope. Then at the age of 15, while in her final year at school, she was signed-up by family friend, M.V. Raman, for a role in a Tamil film 'Vazhkai'. This movie was successful at the box office and was re-made in Hindi during 1951 and released as 'Bahaar'.
Since her entry into films from 1949, this actress, who is also proficient in Bharat Natyam, has appeared in approximately 62 movies, the majority of them in the Hindi language. Her career spanned from 1949 through to 1989. She has received a total of five awards for her performances in 'Devdas', 'Sadhna', 'Ganga Jamuna', and 'Sangam', as well as a lifetime achievement award during 1995.
Her dance numbers, such as 'Hothon Pe Aisi Baat Main Dabake Chali Aai...', 'Man Doley Mera Tan Doley...'; 'Chad Gaiyo Paapi Bichua...'; 'Main Ka Karu Ram Mujhey Buddha Mil Gaya' continue to be popular even today. She made waves when she appeared in a bikini in 'Sangam'. She also paved the way for other South Indian actresses, like Hema Malini, Rekha, Sridevi, etc. to make a transition to Bollywood. Her career was managed by her grandmother, Yadugiri Devi.
She married Raj Kapoor's personal physician, Dr. Chamanlal Bali after he divorced his first wife and re-located to Chennai, where she gave birth to a son, Suchindra.
After quitting films, Vyjantimala took up shrimp farming, opened up a dance academy, even took an active interest in politics, and with the backing of Indira Gandhi's Congress Party was elected Member of Parliament during the 1980s. She chose to quit politics due to principled differences during 1999.
After the passing of her husband, she now resides in Chennai, with her son, who is an aspiring actor in his own right, and has removed herself completely from Bollywood, in particular, and movies in general, though she could have easily continued on for another decade.
One of her hits 'Naya Daur', originally in Black & White, has now been colorized, and re-released.
In 2007, she published her autobiography titled "Bonding," where she revealed that she didn't have an affair with Raj Kapoor, her leading man and director from "Sangam" (1964).
Trivia
Vyjayanthimala won the Best Actress Filmfare Award three times, for her roles in _Sadhana (1958)_, Gunga Jumna (1961), and Sangam (1964/I). She also helped pave the way for more agile and beauteous South Indian actresses, from Hema Malini to Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, to conquer the Hindi film industry.
Was known as one of Bollywood's finest dancers of her time. Vyjayanthimala, trained in Bharatanatyam dance, performed some super-hit song and dance numbers in Hindi films, and her influence on films has been far-reaching: with her, semi-classical dance became an integral part of almost every Hindi film heroine's credentials.
Was launched by M.V. Raman, a family friend, in AVM's Tamil film, Vazhkai (1949). The film was such a huge hit that it continued its success when remade in Hindi as Bahar (1951), also starring Vyjayanthimala.
Once refused the Best Supporting Actress Filmfare Award, as she felt that her role as 'Chandramukhi' in Devdas (1955) was not a supporting one; the strong-headed actress felt she was as much the heroine of the film as Suchitra Sen, who played 'Paro'.
Formed a popular on-screen pair with both the intense Dilip Kumar in films like Devdas, and the jocular Kishore Kumar in hits like New Delhi (1956) and Aasha (1957).
Fell in love with Raj Kapoor's personal physician, Dr. Bali, who treated her for pneumonia after she fell into the lake while shooting for a film. The two grew close and later married and had a child, Suchindra Bali. Vyjayanthimala subsequently decided to leave films while still at the top, and immersed herself in raising her son.
Joined politics for a while, and was close to Indira Gandhi. Vyjayanthimala was elected twice to the Lok Sabha (Indian Parliament's House of the People) and was a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha (Indian Parliament's Council of States). She resigned in 1999, however, as she thought the party was drifting from its avowed principles after the death of Rajiv Gandhi.
Honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi award by the National Academy of Music, Dance and Drama, and the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement award for her distinguished contribution to Indian cinema.
An excellent golf player, Vyjayanthimala was introduced to the game by her husband. She has even played in the National Golf Championship (15 Handicap).
Turned down the mother's role in _Deewaar, which later went to Nirupa Roy.
Personal Quotes
Art has now become less spiritual because of the attempts to modernize it. I don't believe in fusion. East is East and West is West. I plan to continue dancing and doing social service.
I believe in the purity of art. I think you have to be pure at heart to depict divinity.
I am basically an emotional person. Otherwise, I wouldn't be an artiste. I always speak from my heart and that's the way I like to be.
Where Are They Now
(2003) Currently lives in Chennai, and rarely comes to Mumbai.
(2004) She has distanced herself from Bollywood, and Mumbai in general. Continues to play an active role in politics
Vyjanthimala was born in a Tamil-speaking family in Chennai, India, on August 13, 1936.
At the age of 4, she got the rare chance of performing a dance before the Pope. Then at the age of 15, while in her final year at school, she was signed-up by family friend, M.V. Raman, for a role in a Tamil film 'Vazhkai'. This movie was successful at the box office and was re-made in Hindi during 1951 and released as 'Bahaar'.
Since her entry into films from 1949, this actress, who is also proficient in Bharat Natyam, has appeared in approximately 62 movies, the majority of them in the Hindi language. Her career spanned from 1949 through to 1989. She has received a total of five awards for her performances in 'Devdas', 'Sadhna', 'Ganga Jamuna', and 'Sangam', as well as a lifetime achievement award during 1995.
Her dance numbers, such as 'Hothon Pe Aisi Baat Main Dabake Chali Aai...', 'Man Doley Mera Tan Doley...'; 'Chad Gaiyo Paapi Bichua...'; 'Main Ka Karu Ram Mujhey Buddha Mil Gaya' continue to be popular even today. She made waves when she appeared in a bikini in 'Sangam'. She also paved the way for other South Indian actresses, like Hema Malini, Rekha, Sridevi, etc. to make a transition to Bollywood. Her career was managed by her grandmother, Yadugiri Devi.
She married Raj Kapoor's personal physician, Dr. Chamanlal Bali after he divorced his first wife and re-located to Chennai, where she gave birth to a son, Suchindra.
After quitting films, Vyjantimala took up shrimp farming, opened up a dance academy, even took an active interest in politics, and with the backing of Indira Gandhi's Congress Party was elected Member of Parliament during the 1980s. She chose to quit politics due to principled differences during 1999.
After the passing of her husband, she now resides in Chennai, with her son, who is an aspiring actor in his own right, and has removed herself completely from Bollywood, in particular, and movies in general, though she could have easily continued on for another decade.
One of her hits 'Naya Daur', originally in Black & White, has now been colorized, and re-released.
In 2007, she published her autobiography titled "Bonding," where she revealed that she didn't have an affair with Raj Kapoor, her leading man and director from "Sangam" (1964).
Trivia
Vyjayanthimala won the Best Actress Filmfare Award three times, for her roles in _Sadhana (1958)_, Gunga Jumna (1961), and Sangam (1964/I). She also helped pave the way for more agile and beauteous South Indian actresses, from Hema Malini to Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, to conquer the Hindi film industry.
Was known as one of Bollywood's finest dancers of her time. Vyjayanthimala, trained in Bharatanatyam dance, performed some super-hit song and dance numbers in Hindi films, and her influence on films has been far-reaching: with her, semi-classical dance became an integral part of almost every Hindi film heroine's credentials.
Was launched by M.V. Raman, a family friend, in AVM's Tamil film, Vazhkai (1949). The film was such a huge hit that it continued its success when remade in Hindi as Bahar (1951), also starring Vyjayanthimala.
Once refused the Best Supporting Actress Filmfare Award, as she felt that her role as 'Chandramukhi' in Devdas (1955) was not a supporting one; the strong-headed actress felt she was as much the heroine of the film as Suchitra Sen, who played 'Paro'.
Formed a popular on-screen pair with both the intense Dilip Kumar in films like Devdas, and the jocular Kishore Kumar in hits like New Delhi (1956) and Aasha (1957).
Fell in love with Raj Kapoor's personal physician, Dr. Bali, who treated her for pneumonia after she fell into the lake while shooting for a film. The two grew close and later married and had a child, Suchindra Bali. Vyjayanthimala subsequently decided to leave films while still at the top, and immersed herself in raising her son.
Joined politics for a while, and was close to Indira Gandhi. Vyjayanthimala was elected twice to the Lok Sabha (Indian Parliament's House of the People) and was a nominated member of the Rajya Sabha (Indian Parliament's Council of States). She resigned in 1999, however, as she thought the party was drifting from its avowed principles after the death of Rajiv Gandhi.
Honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi award by the National Academy of Music, Dance and Drama, and the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement award for her distinguished contribution to Indian cinema.
An excellent golf player, Vyjayanthimala was introduced to the game by her husband. She has even played in the National Golf Championship (15 Handicap).
Turned down the mother's role in _Deewaar, which later went to Nirupa Roy.
Personal Quotes
Art has now become less spiritual because of the attempts to modernize it. I don't believe in fusion. East is East and West is West. I plan to continue dancing and doing social service.
I believe in the purity of art. I think you have to be pure at heart to depict divinity.
I am basically an emotional person. Otherwise, I wouldn't be an artiste. I always speak from my heart and that's the way I like to be.
Where Are They Now
(2003) Currently lives in Chennai, and rarely comes to Mumbai.
(2004) She has distanced herself from Bollywood, and Mumbai in general. Continues to play an active role in politics
Urmila Matondkar Biography
Urmila Matondkar Biography
The daughter of a lecturer, actress Urmila Matondkar began her celluloid career as a child artiste with the film _Kalyug (1980)_. Although an average film at the box-office, her next film, Masoom (1983), about a family coping with an illegitimate member, showed her acting talents blossom and she received critical acclaim from both her fans and the film fraternity. She subsequently appeared in a number of films including Dacait (1987), where she plays Sunny Deol's under-aged sister who gets brutally raped.
Years later, Urmila then made her debut as an adult actress in N. Chandra's Narasimha (1991) opposite Sunny Deol . She then did the fantasy Chamatkar (1992/I) with the then-débutant Shahrukh Khan and Shreemaan Aashique (1993), a comedy on male chauvinism opposite Anupam Kher and Rishi Kapoor and a crime movie Drohi (1992), But no matter what films she did, while her fellow actresses Manisha Koirala and Raveena Tandon reached the peak of their popularity with blockbuster after blockbuster, success seemed to elude her.
Then she did Ram Gopal Varma's Bollywood Dreams (1995), a tale of a girl's journey in the film industry. The movie came as a refreshing surprise and Urmila gave a magnificent performance, which is no small feet alongside actors Aamir Khan and Jackie Shroff, but what gave the film classic status was A.R. Rahman's music, Asha Bhosle's songs and designer Manish Malhotra, who transformed Urmila from a Maharashtrian middle-class girl into a sexy and glamorous actress. With this movie Urmila revolutionized sensuality on the Indian screen. What most actresses hadn't managed even after a dozen hits, Urmila had achieved with only one film. And ever since, she has been associated with Asha Bhosle's sensual voice and of course the image of the sizzling seductress - in fact, she is still known for her sizzling sensuality and her stunning looks.
However, Urmila is not to be judged only for her looks. She is also an actress of great talent and skill - her performance in Satya (1998) as a modest girl whose boyfriend, the titular character, gets sucked into the Bombay underworld is one of her best ever performances to date. And since 2000, she began to play roles of depth and substance, making an impact most notably in the films Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya... (2001), Om Jai Jagadish (2002), Pinjar (2003), a drama based on India's partition, Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara (2005), about a man accused of Gandhi's murder and Banaras (2006).
As of 2006, she has acquired several assignments, both using her talents as an actress and as a seductress - she is doing Onir's Bas Ek Pal (2006) and Ram Gopal Varma's Sholay (2006), the latter of which audiences are eagerly waiting for with bated breath...
Today Urmila is known as one of Bollywood's most versatile actresses. After Sridevi, she is known to have the played the most varied characters next to fellow actresses Tabu and Mahima Chaudhry.
Trivia
Indian model.
Her father is a lecturer
Has worked with other top actresses like Sridevi, Manisha Koirala, Mahima Chaudhry, Juhi Chawla and Rekha which proves that she's not afraid to share credit.
Also well known (along with actresses Sonali Bendre, Raveena Tandon and Sushmita Sen) for her sensational dance numbers.
She started her career as a child artist.
She has played three different negative roles: In 'Kaun' she was a sociopath, in 'Pyar Tune Kya Kiya' she plays a desperate woman who won't give up at any cost to get what she wants and in 'Om Jay Jagadish', she plays the arrogant and uptight wife and daughter-in-law. She has played a semi-negative role in 'Bhoot', where she plays a newly wedded housewife who gets possessed by a dead woman.
Was very good at academics in school. has been awarded the scholarship (state wide conducted examination) in the 4th standard.
Personal Quotes
When I saw Chamma Chamma, I was extremely disappointed. It wasn't even one-hundredth of what I'd put in.
People can't digest the fact that I am still sane, while everyone around is breaking down
I am obsessed with the way I look in a film. I can't look like a mess to prove that I am not vain.
I haven't patented my acting style. So anybody is free to copy it as and when desired. Many actresses have already tried it, successfully or unsuccessfully
I honestly feel that what we are doing is no big deal. After Sridevi, none of us can even claim, we are such big stars.
The daughter of a lecturer, actress Urmila Matondkar began her celluloid career as a child artiste with the film _Kalyug (1980)_. Although an average film at the box-office, her next film, Masoom (1983), about a family coping with an illegitimate member, showed her acting talents blossom and she received critical acclaim from both her fans and the film fraternity. She subsequently appeared in a number of films including Dacait (1987), where she plays Sunny Deol's under-aged sister who gets brutally raped.
Years later, Urmila then made her debut as an adult actress in N. Chandra's Narasimha (1991) opposite Sunny Deol . She then did the fantasy Chamatkar (1992/I) with the then-débutant Shahrukh Khan and Shreemaan Aashique (1993), a comedy on male chauvinism opposite Anupam Kher and Rishi Kapoor and a crime movie Drohi (1992), But no matter what films she did, while her fellow actresses Manisha Koirala and Raveena Tandon reached the peak of their popularity with blockbuster after blockbuster, success seemed to elude her.
Then she did Ram Gopal Varma's Bollywood Dreams (1995), a tale of a girl's journey in the film industry. The movie came as a refreshing surprise and Urmila gave a magnificent performance, which is no small feet alongside actors Aamir Khan and Jackie Shroff, but what gave the film classic status was A.R. Rahman's music, Asha Bhosle's songs and designer Manish Malhotra, who transformed Urmila from a Maharashtrian middle-class girl into a sexy and glamorous actress. With this movie Urmila revolutionized sensuality on the Indian screen. What most actresses hadn't managed even after a dozen hits, Urmila had achieved with only one film. And ever since, she has been associated with Asha Bhosle's sensual voice and of course the image of the sizzling seductress - in fact, she is still known for her sizzling sensuality and her stunning looks.
However, Urmila is not to be judged only for her looks. She is also an actress of great talent and skill - her performance in Satya (1998) as a modest girl whose boyfriend, the titular character, gets sucked into the Bombay underworld is one of her best ever performances to date. And since 2000, she began to play roles of depth and substance, making an impact most notably in the films Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya... (2001), Om Jai Jagadish (2002), Pinjar (2003), a drama based on India's partition, Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara (2005), about a man accused of Gandhi's murder and Banaras (2006).
As of 2006, she has acquired several assignments, both using her talents as an actress and as a seductress - she is doing Onir's Bas Ek Pal (2006) and Ram Gopal Varma's Sholay (2006), the latter of which audiences are eagerly waiting for with bated breath...
Today Urmila is known as one of Bollywood's most versatile actresses. After Sridevi, she is known to have the played the most varied characters next to fellow actresses Tabu and Mahima Chaudhry.
Trivia
Indian model.
Her father is a lecturer
Has worked with other top actresses like Sridevi, Manisha Koirala, Mahima Chaudhry, Juhi Chawla and Rekha which proves that she's not afraid to share credit.
Also well known (along with actresses Sonali Bendre, Raveena Tandon and Sushmita Sen) for her sensational dance numbers.
She started her career as a child artist.
She has played three different negative roles: In 'Kaun' she was a sociopath, in 'Pyar Tune Kya Kiya' she plays a desperate woman who won't give up at any cost to get what she wants and in 'Om Jay Jagadish', she plays the arrogant and uptight wife and daughter-in-law. She has played a semi-negative role in 'Bhoot', where she plays a newly wedded housewife who gets possessed by a dead woman.
Was very good at academics in school. has been awarded the scholarship (state wide conducted examination) in the 4th standard.
Personal Quotes
When I saw Chamma Chamma, I was extremely disappointed. It wasn't even one-hundredth of what I'd put in.
People can't digest the fact that I am still sane, while everyone around is breaking down
I am obsessed with the way I look in a film. I can't look like a mess to prove that I am not vain.
I haven't patented my acting style. So anybody is free to copy it as and when desired. Many actresses have already tried it, successfully or unsuccessfully
I honestly feel that what we are doing is no big deal. After Sridevi, none of us can even claim, we are such big stars.
Udita Goswami Biography
Udita Goswami Biography
Green-eyed Udita was born in Dehradun, India, in the Goswami family. Her parents are from the North-Eastern State of Assam. She comes from a very traditional and conservative family, and studied in Maa Anandmayi Memorial and D.A.V. Public schools until the 8th standard.
Always wanting to be part of showbiz, she was not quite happy with her life in Dehradun. When she proposed to re-locate to Bombay, her parents initially opposed, but subsequently let her have her own way.
Voluptuous, above average height, and sexy to boot, it was not long before her pictures were noticed by MTV. They approached her, and she subsequently became the winner of MTV Model Mission 2.
She soon started modeling for Nokia, Star Movies, Pepsi, and Titan watches.
She did her very first fashion feature photo-shoot with professional photographer Anand Seth.
In 2003 Bollywood actress turned film-maker, Pooja Bhatt, offered her a role in 'Paap', which failed to make any impact at the box office, but did get stunningly beautiful Udita noticed, so much so that she got an offer to act in 'Zeher' - a movie that made her famous virtually overnight. She has subsequently appeared in 'Aksar'; has a special appearance in 'Dil Diya Hai'; has appeared in a music video by Ahmed Patel titled 'Kya Khoob Lagti Ho' opposite Upen Patel.
She has also been involved in political awareness & has done a show for the 'Sick Kids Foundation'.
She was award presenter in 2004 for the '49th Filmfare Awards'.
Her appearance in 'The Man' produced by 'Dharmendra' co-starring Sunny Deol, originally scheduled for a 2009/2010 release, is on hold.
This natural beauty, who is ranked amongst the 'Top 100 Beautiful Women', has taken it upon herself to review all offers that are coming her way and is also considering acting in commercial movies - if she likes the role.
Trivia
Is a model turned actress.
She's a member of Save Our Stray and PETA (India).
Personal Quotes
"One never knows what destiny has in store. I always knew I wanted to be in the glamour industry. I did well as a model and now I hope all works for me as an actress".
About her debut film Paap (2004): "I didn't want to make a debut in a film seeing which the audience would say, 'Oh, just another model, who's come and gone.' I needed people to sit up and take notice of me."
I am basically from Dehradun, MTV spotted my pictures (not a portfolio) and I was the winner of MTV model Mission 2. That's how I got my commercial break. But someone who spotted me was this fashion photographer called Anand Seth and I did my first fashion feature with him. Two years later I wanted to leave it (modelling) when I was still in demand and the movie offer was to good for me to say no.
Green-eyed Udita was born in Dehradun, India, in the Goswami family. Her parents are from the North-Eastern State of Assam. She comes from a very traditional and conservative family, and studied in Maa Anandmayi Memorial and D.A.V. Public schools until the 8th standard.
Always wanting to be part of showbiz, she was not quite happy with her life in Dehradun. When she proposed to re-locate to Bombay, her parents initially opposed, but subsequently let her have her own way.
Voluptuous, above average height, and sexy to boot, it was not long before her pictures were noticed by MTV. They approached her, and she subsequently became the winner of MTV Model Mission 2.
She soon started modeling for Nokia, Star Movies, Pepsi, and Titan watches.
She did her very first fashion feature photo-shoot with professional photographer Anand Seth.
In 2003 Bollywood actress turned film-maker, Pooja Bhatt, offered her a role in 'Paap', which failed to make any impact at the box office, but did get stunningly beautiful Udita noticed, so much so that she got an offer to act in 'Zeher' - a movie that made her famous virtually overnight. She has subsequently appeared in 'Aksar'; has a special appearance in 'Dil Diya Hai'; has appeared in a music video by Ahmed Patel titled 'Kya Khoob Lagti Ho' opposite Upen Patel.
She has also been involved in political awareness & has done a show for the 'Sick Kids Foundation'.
She was award presenter in 2004 for the '49th Filmfare Awards'.
Her appearance in 'The Man' produced by 'Dharmendra' co-starring Sunny Deol, originally scheduled for a 2009/2010 release, is on hold.
This natural beauty, who is ranked amongst the 'Top 100 Beautiful Women', has taken it upon herself to review all offers that are coming her way and is also considering acting in commercial movies - if she likes the role.
Trivia
Is a model turned actress.
She's a member of Save Our Stray and PETA (India).
Personal Quotes
"One never knows what destiny has in store. I always knew I wanted to be in the glamour industry. I did well as a model and now I hope all works for me as an actress".
About her debut film Paap (2004): "I didn't want to make a debut in a film seeing which the audience would say, 'Oh, just another model, who's come and gone.' I needed people to sit up and take notice of me."
I am basically from Dehradun, MTV spotted my pictures (not a portfolio) and I was the winner of MTV model Mission 2. That's how I got my commercial break. But someone who spotted me was this fashion photographer called Anand Seth and I did my first fashion feature with him. Two years later I wanted to leave it (modelling) when I was still in demand and the movie offer was to good for me to say no.
Twinkle Khanna Biography
Twinkle Khanna Biography
Very few people have the privilege of being born on the same day as their mom or dad, Tina is one of them. She was born on 29 December 1974, and shares her date of birth with her dad, Jatin alias super-star Rajesh Khanna, born in 1942. Tina is the daughter of well-known Bollywood actress, Dimple Kapadia; has a sister, Rinke, who is married to Industrialist Sameer Saran, and has a daughter. Her aunt is Bollywood actress and costume designer, Simple Kapadia. Her parents are no longer married to each other.
Tina, now renamed Twinkle, made her debut in 'Barsaat' at the age of 21, opposite Dharmendra's second son, Bobby Deol. This movie got an average box office rating, and catapulted both actors to a fair level of popularity. She then went on to star in a total of 15 movies, including one in Telugu ('Seenu') opposite Venkatesh. She has acted opposite Salman Khan, Govinda, Shahrukh Khan, Aamir Khan amongst others. She was the recipient of Best Debut award for her performance in 'Baraasat'.
She was once engaged to Rajiv Bhatia, alias Bollywood actor Akshaye Kumar, the engagement was broken, however, they did get engaged for a second time, and were subsequently married on 14 January 2001.
After her marriage, Twinkle quit acting, and subsequently gave birth to a baby boy, Araav, on 15 September 2002.
After Araav's birth, Twinkle, in partnership with Gurlein Manchanda, opened an Interior Design store (White Window) in Bombay's Crawford Market, and subsequently went on to receive the El Decor Award. She is in the process of opening another store in Bombay.
Trivia
Daughter of actor Rajesh Khanna and actress Dimple Kapadia. Niece of actress Simple Kapadia. Became an aunt on 19 October 2004 when a daughter was born to her sister Rinke Saran.
Engaged twice to Akshay Kumar. Got married after the second engagement. Has a son named Araav Bhatia.
Was offered Rani Mukherjee's role in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.
Proposed marriage to Akshay Kumar on a video cassette featuring Akshay for her to check him out.
Indian model.
Sister of Rinke Khanna (actress).
She and father Rajesh Khanna share the same birthday. He was born 32 years before her (1942).
Where Are They Now
(2002) Co-runs an Interior Design Store in Crawford Market, Bombay, called the White Window.
Very few people have the privilege of being born on the same day as their mom or dad, Tina is one of them. She was born on 29 December 1974, and shares her date of birth with her dad, Jatin alias super-star Rajesh Khanna, born in 1942. Tina is the daughter of well-known Bollywood actress, Dimple Kapadia; has a sister, Rinke, who is married to Industrialist Sameer Saran, and has a daughter. Her aunt is Bollywood actress and costume designer, Simple Kapadia. Her parents are no longer married to each other.
Tina, now renamed Twinkle, made her debut in 'Barsaat' at the age of 21, opposite Dharmendra's second son, Bobby Deol. This movie got an average box office rating, and catapulted both actors to a fair level of popularity. She then went on to star in a total of 15 movies, including one in Telugu ('Seenu') opposite Venkatesh. She has acted opposite Salman Khan, Govinda, Shahrukh Khan, Aamir Khan amongst others. She was the recipient of Best Debut award for her performance in 'Baraasat'.
She was once engaged to Rajiv Bhatia, alias Bollywood actor Akshaye Kumar, the engagement was broken, however, they did get engaged for a second time, and were subsequently married on 14 January 2001.
After her marriage, Twinkle quit acting, and subsequently gave birth to a baby boy, Araav, on 15 September 2002.
After Araav's birth, Twinkle, in partnership with Gurlein Manchanda, opened an Interior Design store (White Window) in Bombay's Crawford Market, and subsequently went on to receive the El Decor Award. She is in the process of opening another store in Bombay.
Trivia
Daughter of actor Rajesh Khanna and actress Dimple Kapadia. Niece of actress Simple Kapadia. Became an aunt on 19 October 2004 when a daughter was born to her sister Rinke Saran.
Engaged twice to Akshay Kumar. Got married after the second engagement. Has a son named Araav Bhatia.
Was offered Rani Mukherjee's role in Kuch Kuch Hota Hai.
Proposed marriage to Akshay Kumar on a video cassette featuring Akshay for her to check him out.
Indian model.
Sister of Rinke Khanna (actress).
She and father Rajesh Khanna share the same birthday. He was born 32 years before her (1942).
Where Are They Now
(2002) Co-runs an Interior Design Store in Crawford Market, Bombay, called the White Window.
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