Today marks the 18th death anniversary of Nadira, the iconic actress of Hindi cinema during the 1950s and 1960s (09/02/2006).

Today marks the 18th death anniversary of Nadira, the iconic actress of Hindi cinema during the 1950s and 1960s (February 9, 2006).

Nadira, also known as Florence Ezekiel, was a dominant figure in the film industry during the 1950s and 1960s. Renowned for her roles in ‘Mud Mud Ke Na Dekh,’ she was one of the era’s most sought-after actresses, portraying both princesses and vamps. Notably, she was perhaps the first Bollywood star to be driven in a Rolls-Royce.

She is fondly remembered for her outstanding performances in films like ‘Shree 420’ (1955), ‘Pakeezah’ (1972), and ‘Julie’ (1975), the latter earning her the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress.

Originating from Nagpada in south Mumbai, Nadira was a Baghdadi Jew who made a spectacular entry into Bollywood at the age of 19 with Mehboob Khan’s ‘Aan’ (1950), starring opposite the legendary Dilip Kumar.

Her portrayal of the villainous Maya in Raj Kapoor’s ‘Shree 420’, where she captivated audiences with the iconic club-dance number ‘Mud Mud Ke Na Dekh,’ remains unforgettable to countless fans.

Additionally, the song ‘Ajeeb Daastan Hai Yeh,’ featuring Nadira alongside Rajkumar and Meena Kumari in ‘Dil Apna Preet Parayi,’ continues to be a beloved classic.