Born Mahjabeen Bano on August 1, 1933, Meena Kumari became one of Bollywood’s most respected actresses. She began working in films as a child artist and gradually established herself as a leading actress.

Her performances in Baiju Bawra (1952), Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam (1962), and Pakeezah (1972) earned widespread acclaim. Her ability to portray sorrow and emotional depth earned her the title “Tragedy Queen.”

Although her personal life was marked by difficulties, her artistic achievements made her one of the greatest actresses in Indian film history.