Nargis (Indian Actress) – Full Detail
Basic Information
- Full Name: Fatima Rashid (Popularly known as Nargis Dutt)
- Date of Birth: 1 June 1929
- Place of Birth: Calcutta, Bengal Presidency, British India
- Date of Death: 3 May 1981
- Place of Death: Bombay (now Mumbai), Maharashtra, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Profession: Actress, Philanthropist, Politician
Family
- Father: Abdul Rashid alias Mohan Babu
- Mother: Jaddanbai (Famous classical singer and filmmaker)
- Spouse: Sunil Dutt (Actor and Politician) – Married in 1958
- Children: Sanjay Dutt, Priya Dutt, Anju Dutt
Career Overview
Nargis was one of the most iconic and influential actresses in Indian cinema’s golden era. She began acting as a child artist under the name Baby Nargis in the film Talash-E-Haq (1935).
Her breakthrough came with Tamanna (1942), but she rose to stardom after Barsaat (1949) directed by Raj Kapoor.
She became the face of post-independence Hindi cinema with her expressive acting, emotional range, and natural performances.
Notable Films
- Barsaat (1949)
- Awara (1951)
- Shree 420 (1955)
- Chori Chori (1956)
- Mother India (1957)
- Raat Aur Din (1967)
Awards and Honors
- Filmfare Best Actress Award – Mother India (1958)
- National Film Award for Best Actress – Raat Aur Din (1968)
- Padma Shri – 1958 (Government of India)
- Nargis Dutt Memorial Award later established in her name for films promoting national integration.
Legacy
Nargis is remembered for her portrayal of strong, compassionate women and for bringing realism to Hindi cinema.
Her role in Mother India remains one of the most powerful performances in Indian film history.
She was also active in social causes and served as a Rajya Sabha member (1980–1981).
After her death, the Nargis Dutt Cancer Foundation was created in her honor to support cancer treatment and awareness.