Mehboob Khan found solace in Nadira after Nargis’ no-show for Aan. This launched the ‘Mud Mud Ke Na Dekh Girl’—a force of nature in 1950s Bollywood. Her biography blends tragedy, triumph, and timeless allure, perfect for fans revisiting vintage Hindi cinema.
Farhat Ezekiel, born 1932 in Palestine to Jews, was a sporty rebel. Mumbai’s challenges honed her resilience. Spotting her in 1952, Mehboob Khan reimagined her as Nadira for his royal saga Aan. With Dilip Kumar, she played a princess bold as brass—unlike timid peers. Box-office magic ensued.
Hits poured in: 1953’s Nagin, 1954’s Waris/Dak Babu, 1955’s Raftaar/Jalan. 1956’s Shri 420 etched her forever via Maya’s vampy charm and the chartbuster song. Pakeezah was another jewel.
Specializing in antagonists—the femme fatale in Kala Bazaar, Julie, etc.—she commanded respect. Co-stars? The A-list: Ashok Kumar, Shammi Kapoor, Dev Anand.
Veteran phase sparkled with 80s-90s roles in ChaalBaaz, Dahshat, Godfather, Josh, and TV’s Ek Tha Rusty, Margarita.
Twice married, twice broken: Naksh Lailapuri and a week’s union with Motilal Rajvansh. Nadira signed off February 9, 2006.
Her edgy elegance continues to inspire, a cornerstone of Bollywood’s diverse legacy.