She earned more than top Bollywood stars, even refused 'Mughal-e-Azam' but today few remember India's first 'Lady Boss'

Time of India

a day ago

Bina Rai, born Krishna Sareen on July 13, 1931, in Lahore, rose to become one of the most formidable names in Hindi cinema during the 1950s. Following the Partition, her family moved to Kanpur, where she completed her education before joining Isabella Thoburn College in Lucknow. It was during her college years that
Bina Rai
's passion for acting began to flourish through theatre.
Despite prevailing taboos around women entering the film industry, Rai remained determined to pursue her dream. When a newspaper advertisement announced a talent hunt by director Kishore Sahu, she saw it as an opportunity. Her family strongly opposed her decision, but Bina Rai's resolve was unshaken—she reportedly went on a hunger strike until they relented.
Early Breakthrough and Rapid Stardom
Rai emerged as the winner of the contest and received a then-impressive prize of Rs 25,000. She was immediately cast in Sahu's film Kali Ghata, where her striking screen presence and acting talent drew attention. But it was her role in Anarkali (1953) that turned her into an overnight sensation. Her portrayal in the title role, coupled with the film's memorable music and dialogues, made a lasting impression.
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The enormous success of Anarkali solidified her position in the industry. Her performance was so iconic that when filmmaker K. Asif approached her for the role of Anarkali in Mughal-e-Azam, she declined. She believed that the impression she had already created with Anarkali should not be repeated. The role later went to Madhubala, who also left an indelible mark with it.
Commanding Stardom and Unmatched Fees
At a time when leading male actors earned between Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh per film, Bina Rai commanded Rs 1.5 lakh—an unheard-of figure for a heroine then. This was not just a paycheck; it symbolised the value she brought to films. Her name, which became synonymous with 'Lady Boss', alone could attract audiences and guarantee a film's success, reflecting the sway she held in an era largely dominated by men.
Bina Rai starred in several notable films following Anarkali, including Ghunghat (1960), for which she received the Filmfare Award for Best Actress. Other prominent works include Taj Mahal (1963), Genghis Khan, Pyaar Ka Sagar, and Shagoofa. Her roles often reflected grace and emotional depth, earning her admiration across audiences and critics alike.
Life Beyond the Spotlight
At the peak of her career, Bina Rai chose to step away from the arc lights. She married actor Premnath in 1952 and gradually distanced herself from the film industry to focus on family life. The couple had two sons, including Prem Kishan, who also ventured into films.
Bina Rai passed away on December 6, 2009. Her career may have spanned only around 15 years, but her impact was enduring. She not only broke stereotypes by asserting her space in a male-dominated industry but also shaped the trajectory of female stardom in Hindi cinema. Her decision to work on her own terms, the fees she commanded, and the performances she delivered ensured her place among the most respected actresses of her time.