Hindi cinema’s golden age found a voice in Nutan, whose death anniversary today prompts reflections on her unparalleled legacy. Known for pioneering women-led stories in Seema, Sujata, Bandini, and beyond, she redefined the heroine archetype with grit and elegance.
Joining the chorus of remembrance, Jackie Shroff shared a classic black-and-white rendition of ‘Wo Chand Khile, Wo Taare Muskuraye’ via Instagram Stories. Nutan’s luminous charm in the track paired perfectly with Jackie’s tribute: ‘Remembering Nutan ji on her death anniversary.’ The post quickly went viral, stirring emotions and conversations about her timeless appeal.
Mumbai-born Nutan started small as a child artiste in Nal Damayanti, evolving into a leading lady with Hamari Beti. Her filmography, rich with awards, focused on societal themes. As the resilient orphan in Sujata, she challenged prejudices; in Bandini, her portrayal of a conflicted prisoner won hearts and accolades alike.
Self-doubt plagued her early days—she felt too plain for stardom—but her mother’s faith turned the tide. Nutan pushed boundaries, most notably in Delhi Ka Thug, where her swimsuit appearance defied era-specific conventions, ushering in a bolder image for women in films.
What set Nutan apart was her immersive acting style; viewers were mesmerized, praising her endlessly. Her choices—always innovative, always empowering—left a blueprint for authentic storytelling. As Jackie Shroff’s gesture highlights, Nutan’s spirit endures, inspiring filmmakers and fans to value substance over superficiality in cinema.