Waheeda Rehman

Waheeda Rehman: A Legacy in Indian Cinema Waheeda Rehman, born February 3, 1938, stands as a towering figure in Indian cinema, her career spanning over five decades and encompassing more than 90 films. Her contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including a National Film Award, three Filmfare Awards, the Padma Shri (1972), the Padma Bhushan (2011), and the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award (2023). Rehman's debut in the Telugu film Rojulu Marayi (1955) paved the way for a prolific career, marked by memorable collaborations with Guru Dutt in classics such as Pyaasa, Kaagaz Ke Phool, Chaudhvin Ka Chand, and Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam. Her performance in Guide (1965) garnered her the first of her Filmfare Best Actress awards, followed by another for Neel Kamal (1968). She also won the National Film Award for Best Actress for her role in Reshma Aur Shera (1971). While she transitioned to supporting roles in later years, her presence remained impactful in films like Kabhie Kabhie, Chandni, Lamhe, Trishul, and Mashaal. Her contributions extended beyond the screen; Rehman is a philanthropist and advocate for education, serving as an ambassador for RangDe, an organisation working against poverty in India. She received the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1994, further cementing her enduring influence on Indian cinema. Recent appearances include roles in Water, Rang De Basanti, and Delhi 6, showcasing her continued relevance and commitment to the art form.