Legendary actress Waheeda Rehman has been conferred the Dadasaheb Phalke Award this year, an award she deserved much earlier in her career. It is better late than never that she is finally receiving this well-deserved honour.
Wahida Rehman’s journey in the world of Indian cinema is nothing short of remarkable. From her humble beginnings in Telugu cinema to becoming one of the most iconic actresses in Hindi cinema, her story is one of talent, dedication, and enduring love.
Wahida Rehman, a name that resonates through the annals of Indian cinema, is one of the greatest celebrated actresses whose talent has left an indelible mark on the film industry. With a career spanning several decades, she has graced the silver screen with her presence, delivering performances that continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
Early Life and Entry into Cinema
Born on February 3, 1936, in Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India, Wahida Rehman’s journey into the world of cinema was serendipitous. She started as a dancer in films and made her acting debut in the Telugu film “Rojulu Marayi” in 1955. Her talent quickly caught the eye of filmmakers, and there was no turning back.
Iconic Roles of Wahida Rehman
Wahida Rehman’s versatility as an actress allowed her to effortlessly transition between various genres, from romance to drama and even suspense. However, it was her poignant performances in classic films that truly established her as an acting powerhouse.
One of her most memorable roles was in the 1957 film “Pyaasa,” directed by Guru Dutt. She played the character of Gulabo, a prostitute with a heart of gold, in a role that showcased her acting prowess. The film itself is regarded as a masterpiece of Indian cinema. Waheeda Rehman’s character in the movie drew inspiration from a real-life encounter experienced by the screenwriter, Abrar Alvi. During a visit to Bombay with his friends, Alvi ventured into the red-light area, where he engaged in a conversation with a young woman who identified herself as Gulabo. Wahida Rehman performed the role extremely well which inspired Guru Dutt, and she became a fundamental part of Guru Dutt’s Movies, Making Guru Dutt fall in love with Wahida Rehman
Her collaboration with Guru Dutt continued with “Kaagaz Ke Phool” (1959), where she played the lead role of Shanti. This film, although not initially well-received, has since gained recognition as a classic and is a testament to Rehman’s dedication to her craft. Wahida Rehman proved her that she was one of the greatest actors
Wahida Rehman’s portrayal of Rosie Marco in the iconic film “Guide” is widely regarded as one of her most remarkable and career-defining performances. Released in 1965 and directed by Vijay Anand, the film was adapted from R.K. Narayan’s novel of the same name. Wahida Rehman’s portrayal of Rosie is a testament to her exceptional acting prowess.
In “Guide,” Wahida Rehman brings Rosie’s character to life with grace, depth, and nuance. Rosie is a complex character who undergoes a significant transformation throughout the narrative. She starts as a traditional, oppressed housewife, but her encounter with Raju, played by Dev Anand, leads her to explore her passion for dance and her desire for personal liberation.
Wahida Rehman’s performance in “Guide” is a masterclass in subtlety and emotional range. She seamlessly transitions between the different facets of Rosie’s character, portraying her vulnerability, determination, sensuality, and strength with incredible authenticity. Her expressive eyes and graceful movements while dancing on screen left an indelible mark on the audience.
One of the most memorable aspects of Wahida Rehman’s performance in “Guide” is her ability to convey a myriad of emotions without relying on excessive dialogue. Her body language and facial expressions spoke volumes, making Rosie a relatable and sympathetic character. This performance earned her critical acclaim and solidified her status as one of Bollywood’s most accomplished actresses.
Wahida Rehman’s Love Story with Guru Dutt
Wahida Rehman’s association with Guru Dutt is one of the most talked-about aspects of her life. Their on-screen chemistry was palpable, and it soon spilt over into real life. Guru Dutt, despite being married to Geeta Dutt, found himself romantically inclined towards the demure and talented Wahida Rehman.
Their love story began on the sets of the 1956 film “C.I.D.” Guru Dutt, already an established director and actor, was known for his intense performances and meticulous filmmaking. Waheeda Rehman, a newcomer at the time, was making her mark with her natural acting talent. Their paths crossed during the shooting of a song sequence, and it was said that sparks flew instantly.
Guru Dutt was a married man at the time, with two children. However, his marriage with Geeta Dutt was on shaky ground due to various personal issues. On the other hand, Waheeda was a single woman with a promising career ahead of her. Despite these differences, the attraction between them was undeniable. Unfortunately, the relationship did not last long, as Guru Dutt died it is also believed that he committed suicide.
Other than the Iconic movie, The Guide, some of the top movies of Wahida Rehman are as follows
Pyaasa (1957): In this iconic film by Guru Dutt, Rehman plays Rosie, a mysterious cabaret dancer who inspires a poet (played by Dutt) to write his heart out. Rehman’s performance is haunting and unforgettable.
Kaagaz Ke Phool (1959): Another Guru Dutt film, Kaagaz Ke Phool is a complex and tragic story about a filmmaker (again played by Dutt) who loses his way. Rehman plays Shanti, the filmmaker’s muse and lover. Her performance is both heartbreaking and mesmerizing.
Chaudhvin Ka Chand (1960): In this romantic drama, Rehman plays Nargis, a beautiful and innocent village girl who falls in love with a wealthy aristocrat (played by Raj Kapoor). Rehman’s performance is radiant and captivating
Teesri Kasam (1966): In Teesri Kasam she played the role of Heerabai who is a dancer. In the movie, she played the character with depth and complexity by not playing with the innocence of Hiraman ( an innocent rustic villager) played by Raj Kapoor
Khamoshi (1970): In this psychological drama, Rehman plays a nurse who cares Psychiatric patient for a (played by Rajesh Khanna). Rehman’s performance is understated and powerful, and she conveys the nurse’s empathy and compassion with great subtlety.
Awards and Recognition
Wahida Rehman’s talent did not go unnoticed, and she received several accolades throughout her career. She won the National Film Award for Best Actress for her role in “Reshma Aur Shera” (1972) and was also honored with the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 1998. She was also nominated for the Golden Bear, which is the highest award for the best film at the Berlin Film Festival.
As we celebrate her achievements and the magic she brought to the silver screen, Wahida Rehman’s legacy continues to inspire generations of actors and film enthusiasts alike. Her name will forever be etched in the annals of Indian cinema as one of its most iconic and beloved stars.
