Veteran actress Vyjayanthimala Bali is among 132 people conferred with Padma Awards 2024. She has been honoured with the Padma Vibhushan, the second-highest civilian honour awarded for exceptional and distinguished service. Here’s a look at Vyjayanthimala’s life and work:
Vyjayanthimala Bali: India’s First Female Superstar
Regarded as India’s first female superstar, Vyjayanthimala was born in Chennai and was the daughter of Tamil actress, Vasundhara Devi. She made her acting debut at the age of 16 with the Tamil film Vaazhkai (1949). Her first Hindi movie was Bahar, which was released in 1951. Later, Bali also worked in several films from the 1950s and 1960s, including Devdas, Naya Daur, Aasha, Sadhna, Gunga Jumna, Sangam and Jewel Thief.
However, Vyjayanthimala is known not just for her acting prowess, she is an equally talented dancer. Her performances in songs like “Man dole mera tan dole…”, “Main kaa karun ram mujhe buddha mil gaya…”, “Hothon pe aisi baat…” and “Udde jab jab zulfein teri…“ are among the most popular ones.
When Vyjayanthimala Sued The Makers of Dilip Kumar’s Movie
Vyjayanthimala and Dilip Kumar delivered seven hits together including Madhumati (1958), Gunga Jumna (1961) and Sunghursh (1968) among others. While their on-screen chemistry was loved by all, there were also rumours of their off-screen romance. However, the two always denied being involved in a relationship.
However, Vyjayanthimala and Dilip Kumar’s friendship soon hit a rough patch when the former was replaced by Waheeda Rehman in the movie, Ram Aur Shyam. Reportedly, Vyjayanthimala had already started shooting for the movie when she was replaced. The makers claimed that it was her “unprofessional behaviour and tantrums” which led them to take this decision. However, Vyjayanthimala sued the makers following which the shoot of the movie was halted. The incident disappointed Dilip Kumar.
Vyjayanthimala and Dilip Kumar did not speak for years. Their fight was later resolved via Dilip’s wife Saira Banu.
Vyjayanthimala Bala Political Career
Vyjayanthimala started her political career in 1984 when she contested in Tamil Nadu general election. She contested for the South Chennai constituency from the Indian National Congress. Vyjayanthimala defeated Era Sezhiyan (leader of the Janata Party) and won the election with a margin of about 48,000 votes. Later, she also became a member of Los Sabha.
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