‘She is still Umrao Jaan’: Muzaffar Ali hails Rekha on her 71st birthday

New Delhi: On Rekha’s 71st birthday, filmmaker Muzaffar Ali paid a glowing tribute to her legendary turn as Umrao Jaan in his 1981 period drama, stating, “Her eyes, the magic in them, aligned with her character perfectly. That’s why I feel nobody else could have done this role better than Rekha. She is in the soul of the character. She is still alive in the character. Before 'Umrao Jaan', she was what she was. She was Umrao Jaan later. And she is still Umrao Jaan”.

Rekha’s Indelible Performance

Ali hailed Rekha’s portrayal for bringing grace and emotional depth to the courtesan-poet, noting that her performance “brought the character alive in classy fashion” and is widely considered her finest, anchored in understated sorrow and dignity. Critics and audiences alike have described Rekha’s Umrao as a masterclass in minimalism, with her suffering and desire portrayed through an elegant restraint and evocative stillness.

The Story of “Umrao Jaan”

Set in 19th-century Lucknow, the film is adapted from Mirza Hadi Ruswa’s Urdu novel and recounts Amiran’s journey from innocence, kidnapped and sold into a brothel, renamed Umrao Jaan, to celebrated courtesan, famed for her poetry and dance. The narrative explores her transformation, longing, and quest for belonging in a world tinged by loss and resilience.

Lasting Legacy and Honours

“Umrao Jaan” won four National Film Awards, including Best Actress for Rekha. The music by Khayyam, poetry by Shahryar, and Asha Bhosle’s soulful voice are credited for deepening the film’s emotional impact, making the songs integral to Umrao’s story. Rekha’s performance continues to be referenced as the definitive interpretation of the character, cementing the film as a cultural landmark in Indian cinema.

The movie was restored and re-released to theatres in June 2025, reaffirming Rekha’s enduring legacy as Umrao Jaan.

With inputs from PTI