There are numerous movies in Bollywood that hold a special place in the audience’s hearts. One such film was released in 1972. However, the aftermath of the movie’s release was tragic. The lead actress, who received massive fame for her acting, passed away days after the film’s release, sending shockwaves throughout the entire Bollywood industry.
The movie we are talking about sent fans into a frenzy. Though initially, the film struggled at the box office, it later went on to become a huge hit among audiences. Today, the film is considered a classic and a milestone in Indian cinema history. We are talking about the famous film Pakeezah. Helmed and produced by Kamal Amrohi, the movie featured Meena Kumari as the eponymous lead, alongside Ashok Kumar and Raaj Kumar.
It was Meena Kumari’s untimely demise that brought the spotlight to the film. Born as Mahjabeen Bano on August 1, 1933, Meena Kumari was called the ‘Tragedy Queen.’ She made her debut as a child artist named Baby Meena at the age of six in the 1939 film Leather Face. For her first role, Meena was paid Rs 25.
In 1946, Meena bagged her first lead role in the film Bachchon Ka Khel. In the following years, she acted in multiple films, but her true recognition came after she appeared in Baiju Bawra in 1952. Some of her hit films include Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam, Parineeta, Do Bigha Zamin, Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai, and Phool Aur Patthar.
However, Meena’s life took another turn when she met Kamal Amrohi. The actress was 18, while the filmmaker was 33. The duo fell in love and secretly tied the knot in 1952. Soon after the wedding, differences arose between them, leading to their separation in 1964. Following this, Kumari became an alcoholic. Due to her excessive alcohol consumption, the actress was diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver in 1968.
Coming back to Pakeezah, Meena Kumari worked on the film while undergoing treatment. As per reports, the movie took 15 years to make and was finally released in 1972. It became one of the biggest blockbusters in Hindi cinema. However, just days after its release, Meena’s health deteriorated. The actress was rushed to the hospital, where she slipped into a coma and passed away at the age of 38.
For breaking news and live news updates, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and Instagram. Read more on Latest Entertainment News on India.com.
