Nutan

Nutan: A Legacy of Naturalistic Acting Nutan Samarth-Bahl (1936-1991), or simply Nutan, remains an iconic figure in Hindi cinema, celebrated for her naturalistic acting style and portrayal of complex, often unconventional women. Her four-decade career spanned over 80 films, showcasing her versatility across various genres. Born into a cinematic family - daughter of filmmaker Kumarsen Samarth and actress Shobhna Samarth - Nutan began her acting journey at 14. Early roles in Hamari Beti, Nagina, and Hum Log laid the groundwork for her phenomenal career. Her breakthrough came with Seema (1955), earning her the first of her six Filmfare Awards. Four subsequent Best Actress wins followed for Sujata (1959), Bandini (1963), Milan (1967), and Main Tulsi Tere Aangan Ki (1978), cementing her status as one of Indian cinema's finest actresses. Throughout the 1960s and 70s, Nutan consistently delivered powerful performances in films like Anari, Chhalia, Tere Ghar Ke Saamne, Khandan, Saraswatichandra, Anuraag, and Saudagar. In the 1980s, she transitioned to character roles, notably in Saajan Ki Saheli, Meri Jung, and Naam, winning a posthumous Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Meri Jung. This performance further showcased her range and enduring talent. Nutan received the Padma Shri in 1974. She passed away in 1991 due to breast cancer, leaving behind a legacy as a versatile and highly respected actress, and a son, Mohnish Bahl, who also pursued an acting career.