Born: 1936 (Chennai, India)
Biography:
Vyjayanthimala was born on 13 August 1936 in Chennai, India. She is a former Indian actress, dancer, and parliamentarian who is regarded as one of Indian cinema’s finest actresses and dancers. Throughout her career, she received several accolades, including two BFJA Awards and five Filmfare Awards.
Vyjayanthimala made her screen debut at the young age of thirteen with the Tamil film Vaazhkai in 1949. She then ventured into Telugu cinema with the film Jeevitham in 1950. However, it was her first Hindi film, Bahar in 1951, that gave her the breakthrough she needed to begin her journey to stardom.
In 1954, Vyjayanthimala delivered a remarkable performance in the romantic film Nagin, solidifying her position as a leading actress. However, it was her role in the period drama film Devdas in 1955 that garnered her critical acclaim and established her as one of the finest actresses in the industry. She played Chandramukhi, a Tawaif with a heart of gold, and her portrayal was highly praised. The film and her acting were considered to be her magnum opus. She even won the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in Devdas. However, she refused to accept the award, stating that she played a leading role equal to that of her co-star, Suchitra Sen.
Throughout the 1950s, Vyjayanthimala starred in a series of commercial successes. She showcased her versatility with films like the romance New Delhi in 1956, the drama Naya Daur in 1957, and the comedy Aasha in 1957. She received nominations for the Filmfare Awards for Best Actress for her roles in the social film Sadhna in 1958 and the paranormal film Madhumati in 1958. She even won the award for Sadhna.
In the 1960s, Vyjayanthimala continued to impress audiences with her performances. She portrayed a rustic village belle, Dhanno, in the crime drama film Ganga Jumna in 1961, earning her the Filmfare Award for Best Actress. She won the award again for her role in the romantic drama Sangam in 1964.
Vyjayanthimala constantly reinvented herself and caused quite a stir by appearing in a one-piece swimsuit in a film. Despite receiving a mixed reception, she continued to take on challenging roles. One of her notable performances came in the historical drama Amrapali in 1966, based on the life of Nagarvadhu, royal courtesan of Vaishali, Amrapali.
Her success continued with films like the swashbuckler Suraj in 1966, the heist film Jewel Thief in 1967, the art film Hatey Bazarey in 1967, the film Sunghursh in 1968, and the epic Prince in 1969.
In 1968, Vyjayanthimala received the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian honor, from the Government of India, in recognition of her contributions to the industry.
After her starring role in the film Ganwaar in 1970, Vyjayanthimala decided to retire from the acting industry. However, she remained popular for her dancing, particularly in Bharata Natyam, a form of Indian classical dance. Later, she was honored with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, the highest Indian recognition given to practicing artists.
Vyjayanthimala’s influence extends beyond her impressive acting and dancing career. She is remembered for her contributions to Indian cinema, breaking barriers, and inspiring future generations of actresses. Her dedication to her craft and refusal to accept awards that did not reflect her true contribution to a film speak to her strong character and commitment to her art.
Awards:
– Two BFJA Awards
– Five Filmfare Awards