Waheeda Rehman: Abiding legacy of an acclaimed actor

Veteran actor Waheeda Rehman will be conferred with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award this year. Ahead of the bestowment of India's highest film honour upon Waheed, have a look at the abiding legacy of the acclaimed screen icon.

Hyderabad: Waheeda Rehman's journey in the film industry, spanning several decades, is not just a tale of success but also an enduring testament to her remarkable acting prowess. Rehman, often referred to as the "Queen of Grace," is celebrated not only for her beauty but, more importantly, for her exceptional talent and critically acclaimed performances that have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.

• Early standout performances

Waheeda Rehman's cinematic journey began in the 1950s when she was introduced to the Hindi cinema by the legendary Guru Dutt. Her Hindi debut film, C.I.D (1956), saw her playing the role of a femme fatale, marking the beginning of a career that would redefine the portrayal of women in Indian cinema.

One of her early standout performances was in Pyaasa (1957), a classic directed by Guru Dutt, in which she portrayed the empathetic and complex character of Gulabo. Her ability to convey deep emotions through her eyes and subtle expressions made her an instant sensation. This film, with its socially relevant themes, showcased her prowess in playing roles that resonated with the audience on a profound level.

• A journey through versatility

One of the hallmarks of Waheeda Rehman's career is her sheer versatility. She seamlessly transitioned between genres, demonstrating her acting prowess in both light-hearted roles and intense, dramatic performances. Her performances in movies like Chaudhvin Ka Chand (1960), where she played the role of a wife caught in a complex love triangle, and Kohra (1964), a gripping adaptation of Daphne du Maurier's Rebecca, showcased her remarkable range as an actress.

However, it was her association with renowned filmmaker Satyajit Ray in Abhijan (1962) that demonstrated her ability to excel in regional cinema. She effortlessly essayed the role of a prostitute, and her portrayal was both poignant and powerful.

• Iconic collaborations

Waheeda Rehman's career was adorned with iconic collaborations with some of the greatest filmmakers of her time. Her pairing with Dev Anand in classics like Guide (1965) and Kala Bazar (1960) remains etched in the memories of film enthusiasts. In Guide, she played the character of Rosie, a woman who defied societal norms, and her performance earned her a Filmfare Award for Best Actress, cementing her status as one of the industry's finest.

Another significant collaboration was with the legendary filmmaker Raj Kapoor in Teesri Kasam (1966). The film was a sensitive portrayal of the rural hinterlands of India, and Waheeda Rehman's portrayal of a nautanki dancer was lauded for its authenticity and depth.

• Timeless legacy

Waheeda Rehman's enduring appeal lies in her ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters. Her performances were a masterclass in subtlety, where emotions were conveyed through nuances, gestures, and expressions. Her work in films like Reshma Aur Shera (1971), Lamhe (1991), and Rang De Basanti (2006) continued to captivate audiences across generations.

Even as she aged gracefully, her acting prowess remained intact. Her role as the compassionate mother in Delhi-6 (2009) and scorpion singer Zubaida in The Song of Scorpions (2017) earned her critical acclaim, proving that age was no barrier to her craft.

On Tuesday, Anurag Thakur, the Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting, made the announcement that Waheeda Rehman is being honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award for her immense contribution to Indian cinema. As we celebrate the artistry of Waheeda Rehman, it is a reminder that her cinematic journey is not just a chapter in Indian cinema's history but a timeless saga that continues to inspire talents like Kangana Ranaut, Janhvi Kapoor, and more.