09 July,2023 04:59 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Zohra Sehgal
Zohra Sehgal, the legendary Indian actress, carved an unforgettable legacy in the realm of cinema and performing arts. Born on April 27, 1912, in the Saharanpur district of Uttar Pradesh, her journey began with an unwavering passion for dance, which eventually blossomed into a profound love for acting. Zohra Sehgal marked her entry into Hindi cinema with her debut film, 'Dharti Ke Lal'. From there, her illustrious career soared to incredible heights, earning her numerous accolades and esteemed awards, including the prestigious Padma Shri and Padma Vibhushan.
While Zohra Sehgal enthralled audiences with her remarkable performances in numerous films, certain movies left an indelible impact. Bend It Like Beckham, Dil Se, Veer-Zaara, Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham, and more stand out as timeless classics in her filmography. However, amidst her success, few are aware of the adversities and triumphs that punctuated her life.
The traumatic start: Losing her eye and triumphing over Glaucoma
Zohra Sehgal's life took a tumultuous turn when, at the age of one, she was diagnosed with glaucoma, a debilitating eye disease. Tragically, she lost her left eye due to the condition. Seeking a remedy, her parents took her to England, where she underwent treatment. Remarkably, young Zohra regained her vision after her family spent a considerable sum of 300 pounds on her medical care in 1913. Glaucoma, a group of eye diseases, can severely impair vision or lead to complete blindness by damaging the optic nerve.
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A defiant spirit: Overcoming obstacles to pursue education
Zohra Sehgal's pursuit of education was met with challenges and resistance. Following her mother's demise, her father, aiming to marry off his daughters, sought to hasten the process. Determined to defy societal norms, Zohra resolved not to marry. However, her father had made arrangements for her marriage once she completed her studies at Queen Mary College in Lahore. Displaying her rebellious nature, she confided in her school principal, who devised a plan to prolong her schooling. Consequently, the principal intentionally failed Zohra thrice in the 10th grade, granting her the opportunity to continue her education.
A dancer's soul, dreams of flight and father's denial
During her school days, Zohra discovered her passion for dance and acting, receiving accolades for her performances at various shows and cultural programs. However, her childhood dream was to become a pilot. When she shared this aspiration with her father, it was swiftly dismissed. Despite the rejection, Zohra's spirit remained undeterred, paving the way for her remarkable journey in the world of entertainment.
The trailblazing first Indian to join Mary Wigman's prestigious dance school
Zohra achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first Indian to gain admission to the renowned dance school of iconic German dancer, Mary Wigman. Despite facing limited support from her father, Zohra's unwavering passion for dance propelled her to secure a coveted spot in Mary Wigman's prestigious institution. This extraordinary accomplishment cemented her status as the first Indian to be accepted into a school known for nurturing the world's finest dancers and choreographers.
Zohra Sehgal's life story encompasses triumph over adversity, unwavering determination, and an unyielding passion for her craft. Her extraordinary talent and resilience continue to inspire generations, cementing her legacy as one of Indian cinema's greatest icons.
