10/09/2025
Waheeda Rehman is one of Indian cinema’s most revered and graceful actresses, celebrated for her timeless beauty, natural elegance, and extraordinary range as a performer. Born on February 3, 1938, in Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, she began her career as a dancer before transitioning to films, where her expressive eyes and understated charm quickly captivated audiences. Her debut in with *Rojulu Marayi* (1955) caught the attention of filmmaker Guru Dutt, who brought her to Hindi cinema and cast her in *CID* (1956). However, it was her collaboration with in classics like *Pyaasa* (1957) and *Kaagaz Ke Phool* (1959) that immortalized her as an actress of rare sensitivity and emotional depth. Her ability to convey complex emotions with quiet intensity made her one of the most compelling screen presences of her time.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Waheeda Rehman delivered some of Indian cinema’s most memorable performances in films such as *Chaudhvin Ka Chand* (1960), *Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam* (1962), *Guide* (1965), *Teesri Kasam* (1966), and *Neel Kamal* (1968). Her portrayal of Rosie in Guide, opposite Dev Anand, remains one of the most iconic performances in Bollywood history—a layered, modern woman torn between personal freedom and societal expectations. She won the Filmfare Award for Best Actress for Guide and later for *Neel Kamal*, cementing her status as a performer of exceptional talent and emotional nuance.
As she transitioned into mature roles, Waheeda continued to bring dignity and grace to every performance, appearing in films like *Kabhi Kabhie* (1976), *Lamhe* (1991), and *Delhi 6* (2009). Honored with the Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri, she remains an enduring icon of Indian cinema. With her poise, integrity, and timeless artistry, Waheeda Rehman represents the golden standard of elegance and excellence in film.
