Waheeda Rehman once shared that she was clear on two things when she started her film career - one, that she would not wear a bikini, and the other, that she would not change her name
Waheeda Rehman
Waheeda Rehman, one of the finest actresses in our industry, has been vocal about her thoughts since she joined the industry. On her birthday today, let's recall how Waheeda Rehman had set two conditions before entering the film industry. The veteran actress once shared that she was clear on two things when she started her film career - one, that she would not wear a bikini, and the other, that she would not change her name, as was the phenomenon at that point in time. Although some actresses of her time featured in films wearing a bikini, she feels she did not have the figure to carry it well."
"I remember when I was working with Guru Dutt, I had incorporated a clause in the contract that I would have the final say on the costumes and wouldn't wear costumes that I don't like. He (Guru Dutt) wanted me to watch his films, which I did, but I was adamant about having the clause," Rehman said at one of her book launch events.
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"I didn't want to wear a bikini as I feel I don't have the figure. In fact, I have never worn a sleeveless blouse, be it in films or in my personal life," she added. When asked about today's actresses who wear bikinis on screen, Rehman says that times have changed and that those who have the figure can afford to wear it.
Rehman was also sure she wouldn't change her name. "People told me my name was long and lengthy and had asked me to change it. At that time, changing names was a fashion, as actors like Dilip Kumar, Madhubala, Meena Kumari had changed their names. I was adamant that I would not change my name as it was given by my parents," she added.
Of all the roles that she portrayed on screen, the character of Rosie from the film "Guide" was something that Rehman liked a lot. "I think I was destined to play Rosie as Vijay Anand and Satyajit Ray both were contemplating making a film like this. But it was Vijay who made it. I got the chance to dance as no one thought I could do it. The role was different, as most of them were not ready to play the role of a married woman who lives with another man as she is abandoned by her husband," Rehman said. "I wanted to play different kinds of roles. I am glad this part came to me. It was challenging, and I loved doing this film," she said.
(With Inputs PTI)
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