Meena Kumari was born on January 1, 1933 in Mumbai, India. She was the daughter of Ali Bux and Iqbal Begum, who were originally from Punjab. Meena Kumari's real name was Mahjabeen Bano, but she later adopted her famous stage name.
Meena Kumari grew up in a traditional Muslim household and was exposed to the world of cinema at a young age. Her father, Ali Bux, was a veteran of Parsi theater and had acted in silent films in the past. Meena Kumari's early exposure to her father's work sparked her interest in acting, and she soon began to dream of becoming a movie star herself.
Meena Kumari's big break came when she was cast in a heroine role in the 1952 film Baiju Bawra. The film was a critical and commercial success, and Meena Kumari's performance was highly praised. She won her first Filmfare Best Actress Award for her role in the film, marking the beginning of a successful career in the Hindi film industry.
Following the success of Baiju Bawra, Meena Kumari starred in a series of hit films, including Farzand-e-Watan, Veer Ghatotkach, Alladin, and The Wonderful Lamp. Her versatile acting skills and emotional depth quickly made her one of the most sought-after actresses in Bollywood.
Meena Kumari's personal life was marked by tragedy and heartbreak. In 1952, she met filmmaker Kamal Amrohi on the set of a film, and the two fell in love. They got married soon after, but their relationship was tumultuous and filled with conflicts. Despite their differences, Meena Kumari and Kamal Amrohi remained together until her untimely death.
Meena Kumari struggled with health issues throughout her life, including alcoholism. She tragically died at the young age of 39 from liver cirrhosis, leaving behind a legacy that would forever impact the Hindi film industry.
Meena Kumari's contributions to Indian cinema are immeasurable. She was known for her intense and moving performances, as well as her ability to portray complex and conflicted characters on screen. Her work continues to inspire generations of actors and filmmakers in Bollywood.
Despite facing hardships and challenges in her personal life, Meena Kumari remains a symbol of strength and resilience for many. Her legacy lives on through her iconic performances and unforgettable presence on screen.