Her beauty and talent still remains unmatched

Born as Mahjabeen Bano, versatile actress Meena Kumari needs no introduction. Popularly known as the Tragedy Queen, Kumari’s acting career spanning over 33 years comprises films that bring forward a sadder side of the character she portrayed. Known for not using glycerin for tears in the scene rather crying for real when required, Kumar has described by critics as a ‘historically incomparable’ actress of Hindi cinema. Even Madhubala was a huge fan of Kumari and often said in her praise that there can never be an actress as fine as her.

Pakeeza A classic of love, poetry, poise, and talent, this film took 14 years to complete. One of the finest films of Meena Kumari was directed by her husband Kamal Amrohi and she portrays the role of Sahibjaan, a prostitute who wishes to run away from the brothel. The film is also equally famous for its extraordinary music.

Azaad It is a comedy film starring Meena Kumari and Dilip Kumar and is perhaps one of the only films, where the great actress is not seen crying unlike her famous image of Tragedy Queen. It was not only Kumari’s chemistry with Dilip Kumar that left everyone awestruck but its song like the famous 'Aplam Chaplam' that keeps the films fresh in mind.

Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam Staring Guru Dutt, Meena Kumari, Waheeda Rehman, and Nazir Hussain, the film based on the Bengali novel Sahib Bibi Golam by Bimal Mitra was critically acclaimed. While it didn’t make a mark at the box office, Meena Kumar’s performance as Choti Bahu was praised, loved, and regarded as one of the best performances of Indian cinema.

Parineeta Based on the Bengali novel of the same name, this film too is considered as one of Meena Kumari’s finest acting job. In this film she plays the role of an orphaned niece of a poor clerk, essaying the titular role. In this another spectacular performance of hers, she won millions of hearts with simplicity and charm.

Baiju Bawra As the love interest of Bharat Bhushan in the film who is playing the role of Baiju, Kumari excelled herself bagging herself the Filmfare best actress award. The film went on to be a huge success owing to its hit music and of course Kumari’s acting. Though it is said that the film was based on the legend Baiju Bawra but a lot of changes were incorporated.

It is awful that she left us at the young age of 38 but leaves behind a legacy of films. Not only was she an accomplished actor but a great poet, singer, and costume designer. Few of her other gems are Kohinoor, Dil Apna or Preet Parai, Kaajal and Gazal.