Vyjanthimala Bali received Padma Vibhushan in 2024

Vyjanthimala Bali, a legendary actress, has had a remarkable career since her debut at the tender age of 16. Born on August 13, 1936, in Chennai, she trained in Bharatanatyam before stepping into films. She started in Tamil cinema with “Vazhkai” and quickly transitioned to Bollywood, making her debut in “Bahar” alongside the actor Pran. Throughout her 65-year career, Vyjanthimala worked with many big stars, including Raj Kapoor and Dilip Kumar. In 2024, she was honored with the Padma Vibhushan, India's second-highest civilian award, for her contributions to the arts. Despite her success, she made a notable decision to turn down roles in major films, like “Deewar,” which starred Amitabh Bachchan. In an interview, she stated that she didn’t regret rejecting the role of a mother in "Deewar," explaining that her decision to marry led her to quit acting after 1970. She preferred to step away from the spotlight while still popular. The veteran actress also had a brief political career as a member of the Rajya Sabha from 1984 to 1990, where she addressed various social issues. Vyjanthimala is remembered not only for her film work but also for her significant influence on Indian dance and culture. Her career continues to inspire many in the industry.