"The Remarkable Journey of Waheeda Rehman"

_{Image credit: Dilip Kagda/ Express archive}

Waheeda Rehman, a renowned Bollywood actress, will receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, recognizing her remarkable contributions to Indian cinema. She has been a part of the film industry for over six decades, known for her exceptional acting skills and a distinctive refusal to conform to the objectification of female actors.

Born on February 3, 1938, in Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, she began her acting career with the Tamil film “Alibabavum 40 Thirudargalum.” However, her entry into Hindi cinema was marked by the film “CID” in 1956, opposite Dev Anand.

One of her breakthrough roles was in Guru Dutt’s “Pyaasa” (1957), where she played Gulabo, a sex worker in love with a poet. This role showcased her exceptional acting skills and established her as an iconic actor.

Even as she aged, she continued to excel in the industry, breaking stereotypes about ageism. She took on significant roles in enriched movies like “Rang De Basanti” (2006) and “Delhi 6” (2009).

Waheeda Rehman collaborated with esteemed directors like Vijay Anand, Asit Sen, Sunil Dutt, Gulzar, and Yash Chopra throughout her illustrious career. Her legacy stands as an inspiration in the film industry, proving that true artists can embrace diverse roles and subjects.

Re-reported from the article originally published in The Indian Express