Remembering Madhubala, the Legendary Actress
As the world celebrates Valentine’s Day, 14th February also marks the birthday of India’s beloved actress Madhubala. On her birthday, let’s remember this legendary actress who once ruled over the Hindi Film Industry.
Madhubala was born Mumtaz Jehan Begum Dehlavi on 14 February 1933 in Delhi. Her family belonged to a very traditional Muslim family, and it was unthinkable for them to make their daughter a movie actress. But Madhubala since childhood displayed a talent for acting and wanted to be an actress. So, when her father lost his job, the family had to make Madhubala, then baby Mumtaz, a child actress. Her first movie was the 1942 movie Basant.
Baby Mumtaz had to go through a heap of challenges to make her mark as an actress. She was in the movies, not just for fame but to help out her struggling family financially. Then, in the 1947 film Neel Kamal, she took on the leading role, as Madhubala, and that movie hit the jackpot. That’s when she adopted the name Madhubala for good.
Soon after Madhubala rose to stardom and starred in various movies like Mahal, Badal, Tarana, Amar, Mr. & Mrs. ’55, Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi, Kala Pani, Howrah Bridge, Barsaat Ki Raat, Half Ticket, etc. It was her role as Anarkali in the historical epic film Mughal-e-Azam that earned her widespread acclaim.
Madhubala married the veteran singer Kishore Kumar on 16 October 1960. The union was kept a secret from the industry. It was not announced until the newlyweds held a reception some days later.
Unfortunately, Madhubala was diagnosed with a ventricular septal defect, a congenital heart disorder that had no treatment at the time. She was born with this condition, and it was undetected until years later. Her health continued to deteriorate in the late 1960s. The actress passed away on 23 February 1969, only a few days after turning 36.
Madhubala was one of the most celebrated and beloved Hindi Film actresses until today and even after years she is still respected and loved. Her legacy will live on.
Staff Reporter
