Meena Kumari

Meena Kumari: Tragedy Queen of Hindi Cinema Meena Kumari, born Mahjabeen Bano (1 August 1933 - 31 March 1972), reigns as one of Indian cinema's most celebrated actresses. Her career, spanning over three decades, showcased her talent in over 90 films, earning her the moniker "Tragedy Queen." Kumari's powerful portrayals resonated deeply with audiences, securing her four Filmfare Best Actress awards - a remarkable feat. Her inaugural win was for Baiju Bawra (1954), followed by Parineeta (1955). She achieved a historic triple nomination at the 10th Filmfare Awards (1963), winning for Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam. Her final win came for Kaajal (1966). Kumari's performances in films like Do Bigha Zamin (1953), Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai (1960), Aarti (1962), Main Chup Rahungi (1962), Dil Ek Mandir (1963), Phool Aur Patthar (1966), and Mere Apne (1971) cemented her status as a cinematic icon. Her role in Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam is often cited as mirroring aspects of her personal life. Beyond acting, Kumari was a talented poet and playback singer, contributing to her early films and releasing a posthumous album, I Write, I Recite (1971). She even designed costumes for Pakeezah. Her untimely death at 38, attributed to cirrhosis of the liver linked to alcoholism, marked a tragic end to a brilliant career. Her legacy, however, continues to inspire, solidifying her position as a timeless legend of Hindi cinema.