Remembering Meena Kumari on Her 91st Birth Anniversary: The Story Behind the ‘Tragedy Queen’s’ Hidden Hand
On August 1, 2024, we celebrate the 91st birth anniversary of Meena Kumari, a legendary figure in Indian cinema whose performances have left an indelible mark on Bollywood. Known as ‘The Tragedy Queen,’ Meena Kumari’s portrayals in films like Pakeezah, Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam, and Baiju Bawra are still revered for their depth and elegance.
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"Meena Kumari" |
As we remember her today, an intriguing aspect of her life is worth noting: Meena Kumari's habit of hiding her left hand from the camera. This peculiar behavior often puzzled fans and critics alike, leading many to speculate about its cause.
The story behind this comes from a tragic incident in Kumari's life. On May 21, 1951, Meena Kumari was involved in a serious car accident while traveling from Mahabaleshwar to Mumbai. The crash resulted in significant injuries, particularly to her left hand, which sustained a broken little finger. The accident left her with a permanently altered finger, which had a rounder shape compared to its original form.
According to her stepson, Tajdar Amrohi, the change in the appearance of her finger led Meena Kumari to consciously hide her left hand in film scenes to avoid drawing attention to the injury. This detail adds a layer of personal struggle to her public persona, reflecting the resilience and professionalism she maintained throughout her career.
Meena Kumari, born Mahjabeen Bano, was married to film director and screenwriter Kamal Amrohi in 1952. Despite personal challenges, she remained a prominent figure in cinema until her untimely death in 1972. Her legacy endures through her films and the timeless roles she brought to life.
As we celebrate her legacy on this special day, it’s a reminder of the human stories behind the glamour and the strength that defined Meena Kumari’s illustrious career.
