India Gate and President House

India Gate and President House

When I visited Delhi for the first time, I thought India Gate is one of the most over-hyped places of Delhi. I have always been more inclined towards Mughal architecture. But after being a apart of this city and staying here for seven long years, my opinion about India Gate has definitely changed. India Gate is a 42-metre tall Gate that commemorates the members of the erstwhile British Indian Army who sacrificed their lives fighting for the Indian Empire in the Afghan Wars and World War I. Designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, the construction work of India Gate was completed in the year 1931. And it is counted among the largest war memorials in India.

But India Gate is not just about this. It is a much more than its architecture and history. First and the most important thing about this place is that it is situated in such a way that many important roads spread out from it. The lush green lawns, the ice cream walas, balloon wallas and the fun-filled ambience makes this place one of the most sought aout places for family outing. Moreover it is one of the safest places in Delhi to visit in night. In fact I would say the only safe place in Delhi where you can enjoy the cool breeze with your family and friends late in the night. It is a perfect picnic spot.  The place is illuminated with thousands of lights and which adds up to its beauty. 

And if its a cool windy full moon summer night then your evening is bound to refreshing.

Off late India Gate has also become a unifying bond for Delhites. Either it is celebrating India's victory in cricket world cup or protesting against something wrong. It provides a perfect ground for unifying people of Delhi which is not very seen very often.

And just opposite to India Gate is the magnificent President House. It is one of the largest residential houses of any Head of the State in the world in terms of its magnitude, enormity and its grandeur. This spectacular piece of the British era was the residence of the Viceroy of India till the year 1950 and was known as the Viceroy's House. Also known as Rashtrpati Bhawan, it was designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens, a British architect along with Chief architect and Chief Engineer Hugh Keeling and many Indian contractors.

Today, the President House is surrounded by many guards and it is under strict surveillance. But I am sure anyone will be awe-struck by the architecture and magnificence of this bhawan.

NEEMRANA FORT

If you tiered from your fast paced life and need a rejuvenating trip? Try out Neemrana Fort. Two words that define this fort perfectly are- picturesque and peaceful. The lush green lawns and the peaceful ambience is something you are bound to love here.

It is a perfect weekend getaway for all those who are living in Delhi/NCR. And therefore, it was a good option for us to spend a weekend there. The fort is around 130 kms from Delhi on the Delhi Jaipur highway. We left home by 7:30 am and reached there in three and a half hours. The road all the way is in a good condition so we were fresh when we reached there. As soon as we reach there, we found a vintage car parked on its entrance welcoming us (visitors).

We climbed a few levels through the ramped pathways which are surrounded by walls embellishing the various artefacts from the ear gone by. Since I am fond of forts and historical places, it is needless to say that I liked this place instantly. And since it has been turned into a heritage property it is maintained in a much better way than many other forts.

The fort was built in 1464 on hill across 6 acres of land. As per the officials here, it was in a state of degradation for a long time and it was only in 1986 that the fort was acquired for restoration.  Today, it is very well restored and beautified and one of the most sought after weekend destinations. It has a number of options for rooms and comprises of an open air swimming pool (decent size), a restaurant (afternoon and evening buffet service) and a spa. Since there is nothing much to eat in the surrounding area, you are somewhat compelled to eat in the hotel restaurant.

And if you have a knack of adventure then you can go for Flying Fox and enjoy the aerial view of the fort. Personally I am scared of height so I opted to enjoy the fort from the hill only. We explored every part of the fort. We relaxed in the lawn of Neemrana fort while I tried my hands on my not so good photography. Overlooking the Neemrana town, we sat in the view and enjoyed the breath-taking view. Moreover, view of the Aravali Hills from the resort is very clear. The rooms are decorated and furnished with traditional and colonial furniture, antiques and many objects of art.

Overall, Neemrana fort is an amazing example of heritage that is not only restored and preserved, but is also well- marketed to sustain itself. I wish there are more restoration happening like this in forts of India so that they can be well-preserved.

Busy Bee

 I was  a Busy Bee last month!

It has been a month since my last blog entry. I asked myself today- ‘why’? And the answer was apparent I was busy, very busy. Today I spent full day at home and I realised that my blog needs some attention. Moreover, I have been missed blogging. I have been quite busy last month, the month of May. No need to say about the weekdays. I reach home at 8 or 8.30 every night, cook dinner, have dinner, prepare for next day etc. And by the time I lie on my bed, it is already mid night and I barely get time to glimpse through the day’s newspaper before heading to my deep slumber.

Weekends are not very different. Just that I don’t have to pain my eyes in doing my office work on Saturdays and Sundays.  On Saturdays, I was busy in a new project with my friend or completing my pending household chores. It’s the same with Sundays. So you see, I practically had no time to even switch my laptop after coming to home. But I’m lucky today with few hours to spare and hence this post. I will try to write more posts this month.

Ordinary

In this void and darkness

I am trying to find some light 

But all I can see is darkness

Filled with blurred unfulfilled dreams

The time is just flipping away

Like sand from the fist

And I am here 

Standing in no man's land in desperation

Achieved nothing reached nowhere

Scared of becoming just another regular woman

Cooking, eating, shopping and sleeping

Though I have not been able to become a regular one yet

I am not even ordinary to be extra ordinary

MEMORY LANE

Revisiting the memory lane

Terribly missing my childhood lane…

Never knew time will fly by

Leaving me wondering why

It was a different world

Full of happiness around

The memories are very vivid

In my heart and mind

The streets with Amaltas and Gulmohar tree

All the neighbours knew me

That's the place I learnt to ride bicycle and scooty

That's the place I learnt to enjoy rain and natural beauty

That's the place I learnt to tie my shoe laces

That’s the place I learn to find hiding places

Imagining figure in cloud was most enjoying

Playing with my cats was most satisfying

Nostalgic is what I feel here

Imagining what all I left here

Revisiting the memory lane

Terribly missing my childhood lane…

VOID

9th July’ 2012

When one door closes many other opens! I have heard this many times, but this time it's not just a door, it is much more than that.

I don’t remember the exact date or time when I met him but  gradually we developed a great relationship. We were neither friends nor relatives. We just had great teacher-student, student-teacher relationship. He always considered me as her daughter. Two common chords between us was- one we belong to the same state and second we followed same religion. I cannot get enough words to pen down about our rapo. On one hand, he used to appreciate me for my work and on other hand he used to scold me for my laziness.

I will always remember and cherish those afternoon sessions in the library where we used to sit and chat for hours. We used to discuss about students, friends and acquaintance which we had so much in common. And I always wonder how selflessly he thinks about everyone. How selfless a person can be?

Today, he is not with me and his loss has created a huge void, an emptiness. He is just irreplaceable. Athar Sir, you are missed, I needed you. You were my inspiration, my guide and my teacher.

It took me 2 days to gather the courage to write about this huge loss. While walking across the road, I still think may be one fine day you will come up and ask me- “Net Qualify karo Maryam, kab tak corporate world ke janjal me phasi rahogi? Utilize your talent.”

Har Ek Friend Zaruri Hota hai

MEMORIES 
GANG OF GIRLS

Today while researching for my story (office work) I read this phrase-  “Nothing is ever really lost to us as long as we remember it.” ― L.M. Montgomery. And I thought of scribbling something and that's why I ended up writing this post.

Sometimes we are so caught up in our present that the images from our good old times become blur. Though I have left the golden road behind, but its memories are the dearest of my eternal possessions. Some of the most common things that I remember as a part of my memory are- old house, dress, swing, cats, rain and vacations. But the most important ones are people around me. People come and go and they create memories. Some become good friends and some I remember just as acquaintances. But one thing is sure that they are a part of my memory. Sometimes I remember someone out of blue and then try to figure out that one thing that reminded you of that person. Recalling, remembering and cherishing good times definitely brings a smile. There are different reasons why we remember certain people very vividly. 

In my case I remember 2 kinds of people. One people with whom I have spend very good time, most of them are my friends (and some cousins) whom I have always loved. Second, some unique personalities with whom I might not be that great friend but they are a part of my memory because of their distinct trait or goodness.

The recent advertisement that says- "Her Ek Friend Zaroori Hota Hai" is definitely a hit because of it amazingly appropriate caption. It is correct that you have friends for different purposes. One is neighbourhood friend, one is hanging out friend and the list goes on and on.

I will start with my friends in Patna, my growing up years.
1) Lubna - You are the most simple and genuine person I have ever met. What makes you special is your simplicity and ability to gel with people. I wish to be like you. You are definitely diplomatic, but in a positive way. You know what is right and what is wrong and what amazes me the most is your sense of balance. Librans are supposed to be balanced, but I have never seen a more balanced person than you. It is said that a true friend is one who is there when you are are going through bad time and I must say you have always stood by me. You know even today when I am in some problem or whenever I am stuck somewhere, I think of you. No matter wherever life takes me to,  you will always be one of the dearest friend.

2) Sanoober - I still laugh at our silly fights in college. You are simply super energetic, full of life and harabaria (can't get English word that translates this in a best way). Do you remember the ear ring stall that fell in Andheri Station with your jhatka... do you remember our long phone conversations to get through our first internship... do you remember our craziness for Harry Porter series...do you remember our first formal interview we gave together? Actually the list goes on and on...We have spend some most memorable moments together. You are definitely a distinct character. You are vivacious and the word that defines you the best is 'full of life'. Quite intelligent and social person...always be the way you are.  

3) Sana- You are a very mature yet innocent person. Love the time when you used to bring out the kid in yourself...it has been a real long time since we have met and despite of the fact we don't have any direct contact with each other, whenever we talk we don't feel like we are talking after such a long time. You are a very sensible, mature and an immensely understanding person. Can't forget the song "Jhhot bole kawa kate" with which we irritated you in the whole college trip. Do catch up whenever you visit India.

4) Swati Kumari- I don't know which part of the world you are in presently...but whenever I see Parineeti Chopra I remember you. You really resemble her. You are a very strong, sensible girl, my friend to accompany me till home. I still remember our long chats and discussion on our way to home. I know you have moved on in life but trust me I always remember you as a great friend of mine. I still remember our Radio class, our visit to mango orchid and of course our gossiping session...everything was fun. 

5) Anvesha - I know you are busy with your new responsibilities and life, but I really miss you. You might not know this but you are an intelligent person. You know exactly what to talk to whom. I wish I possess this quality. We have spend quite good time with each other. Our quest to go to college even in City Bandh and strike is something I really appreciate. Whenever I sit back, I remember those wonderful time. You were my constant companion in eating golgappa and egg roll of Boring Road. You have seen my mad crazy side and sometimes you behaved like my mom scolding me whenever required. You are missed Anvesha try to be in contact.

6) Sweta Jha -  Seriously Jha Ji you have quite a distinct personality. You have a uniqueness in yourself that separates you from others. I always look up to you whenever I have to consult any professional advise. You are extremely helpful, friendly and down to earth person. No matter how often we meet,  we meet only once in a blue moon still whenever I talk to you or meet you, I feel the same connection. I can talk to you, express my problems because you are extremely understanding and non-judgmental.  Just be the way you are.

7) Neha Vats- My childhood friend. I simply adore you. You are practical, simple and just an amazing person to be with. What amazes me the most about you is your sense of balance. I find you extremely balanced. We have spend some great time of our life together. You are aware of all my madness and obsession. You are extremely good in talking to people, again a sense of balance. I am really lucky to have you in my life. It has been almost 14 years since I first met you, a studious sweet girl. And though so many years have passed and we have moved on with our individual life, you are still the same simple sweet girl (though you scold your friends).

8) Richa Jha- My Satrangi friend, the girl with beautiful eyes and voice. A strong headed beautiful girl indeed. Whenever I see a colorful umbrella, a miser person or listen to the"Neele Neele Amber pe Chand Jab Aae" I remember you instantly. This is what is association (remember our Psychology class together). You are a fun person to be with. We have spend some great time together.

9) Hena- My most beautiful and adorable friend cum cousin. You are one person whom I terribly miss sometimes. We have actually grown up together. Spend our teens together. Either it be watching I Dream of Jinnie together, plotting a plan of plucking guavas in afternoon when everyone is asleep or playing Hide-n-Seek (Name, Place, Animal, Thing & Dark Room), everything we did together was fun. Though we have moved on with time in our respective life and it has been almost 6 long years since I have met you, you are a part of my beautiful memories. All the beautiful memories keep flashing in my mind whenever I remember you.

10) Koyal - The most mastikhor and well-dressed girl of our PWC gang. I can say we have done lots of fun together which I am sure we will always cherish. And do you remember our great knowledge of phrases? Although we are not together now still we will always be friend. Enjoy Kolkata.

11) Aditi- Yet another mastikhor and bindas girl of our PWC gang.Just be the way you are- a fun loving yet sensible girl, a perfect amalgamation of both.  I wish I could take up some mast nature from you. I am really grateful that you have started a PWC chat group. It is the best way to be in touch.

Abode of Spirits

Ferozshah Kotla

Today world know this place as a cricket stadium, in fact it is one of the esteemed international cricket grounds in India. But just beside this stadium lies the fortress built by Sultan Ferozshah Tughlaq. Like many other monuments of Delhi, it is lying there unnoticed. I had heard first about Feroz Shah Kotla through a television programme regarding monuments of Delhi and was quite fascinated by the myths and stories of this place.

Originally it was a fortress built by Sultan Ferozshah Tughlaq to house his version of Delhi city called Ferozabad. A large enclosure of high walls, Feroz Shah Kotla was the grand and opulent royal citadel of the city. Many visitors like Timur and others have given splendid descriptions of this fortress. But unfortunately, most of its beauty is gone today.

It houses Palaces, Pillared halls, a pigeon-tower and a Baoli (stepped well) some of which are still in good condition. But the two most interesting structure personally my favourite are The Jami Masjid and The Ashoka’s Pillar.

Jami Masjid was the largest of the seven mosques built in Delhi during Tughlaq's reign. According to Franklin who visited the mosque m 1793, it had four cloisters, the domed roofs of which were supported by 260 stone columns, each about 5m high. The centre of the courtyard lay under an 8m high brick and stone octagonal dome. Though none of it exists today, still the remains give a glimpse of its rich structure and an era bygone. A beautiful structure indeed and the most important fact about this mosque is that it is still functional. And one can offers prayers here.

The Asoka’s Pillar from the 3rd century B.C. rises from the palace's crumbling remains, one of many pillars left by the Mauryan emperor Ashoka. It was moved from Pong Ghati Ambala, Punjab (currently in Haryana) placed here in 1356.

Beside these, the most interesting fact about this place is that people come here to light up diyas and incense sticks. It is considered as the abode of Djinns or spirits. I don’t know from where and when this belief has come into existence, but it’s very evident. Believers come here to ask for the completion of wishes.  Some people even leave written requests. The steady stream of believers assures that wishes are being granted by the Djinns.

Thursday is the day when most people come with their petitions and leave offerings. Either it be the curiosity of people (like me) or the faith, whatever the reason may be, people do visit this place. But like many other places of it is lying there unnoticed and needs proper maintenance and repairing.

Ranikhet

Ranikhet- Why should Boys Have All the Fun

After lots of discussion and last minute planning we decided to visit Ranikhet as it was the only feasible destination for weekend vacation  We left Delhi at 6 pm in evening although we thought that we will leave maximum by 4 pm .

Ranikhet is a small hill station in Almora District of Uttarakhand. Unlike, Shimala and Manali, it is less populated and urban. In fact a perfect place to spend your weekend.   

 Four of us, all girls along with our driver left for Ranikhet. Driver was quite lucky to get a chance to drive a car full of young beautiful girls. All of us were super excited about the trip. Since we work in the same office so we gossiped about office, almost about each and every team member and when we were done with this interesting long conversation, we started enjoying the silly songs played by our silly driver. That was one amazing night of gossip, song and dance. After that when we were exhausted, two of my friends dozed off to sleep and I and one of them were wide awake almost whole night to enjoy the beauty of the full moon light and that too in mountains.

We reached Ranikhet by 5 am and then we started our mission to look for a hotel. At 5 am in morning most of the hotels were closed and people were sleeping. So, it was only after 6 am and a lot of failed trials we managed to get the hotel- The Moon Palace. We got a nice room with an amazing view. We freshened up, took a small nap, ate breakfast and after spending some time in the garden area of the hotel enjoying flowers and scenery we left the hotel for the city’s visit.

Our first destination was The Golf Course. The green meadow of the golf course at such an altitude is simply awe- aspiring. After a long photo session, we headed to Chaubhatia Garden famous for their extensive orchards of tasty apples, peaches, plums and apricots. We spend the evening in our hotel playing Ludo and eating Maggie as the sunset was followed by the hailstorm. The view from our hotel balcony was simply soothing and refreshing.  

It’s wonderful to explore the sharp paths going up and down, the public gardens just above the bus stand, the small stalls selling maggie and tea.

Next day after breakfast we headed to Almora and because of our over-smart driver who did not bother to ask the way, we got lost in the hills. It proved to be a blessing in disguise, we crossed some beautiful unexplored rural villages of the hills. We were so mesmerized with the refreshing cool breeze and nature’s beauty that we neither talked much nor clicked photos. We were just spellbound with the striking views of hills. I got to know that there is lots of diversity in hills also. I always visualized hills in a particular way, but this road journey broke my misconception that all hills look same. I love the small houses made of slates, the varieties of flora and each and every bit of the rural hill station. Fog clad mountains, beautiful stream with crystal clear waters, lovely woods spread over green veiled valleys, traditional cottages, virgin forest, each and everything that came to our eye sight was simply mesmerizing.

Suddenly we saw beautiful scenery and got out of our cab. It was a splendid view. On one side of the road was a highland and on the other side there was a spring of water. Two of my friend jumped on the highland and they got so very excited that they started dancing, what a delightful moment it was. After that craziness we went to the spring of water and spent a long time in photo session. We were behaving as if we are birds freed from our cage, in a way all of us are caged in our daily monotonous life. When we were done with a lot of madness and photo session we got back in our cab and headed to Almora.

But by the time we reached Almora it was already evening and it was time to return. By that time we were quite contended with our long road journey in hills. We halted at one stunning landscape to enjoy our sunset. Needless to say the view was simply hypnotic. After this we decided to leave for Delhi as our driver was already getting irritated by us. Though we started soon after the sunset we were able to see the beautiful night of hills.  When we crossed Bhimtal we were quite spell bound to see the beautiful lake on a full moon night, it was again simply awe-aspiring. And this was the last visual delight of our trip.

Silvery nights, bright and colourful days, lovely woods spread over green veiled valleys, distinct smell of nature and refreshing breeze are some of the amazing memories I have of that trip. And of course the girlish giggles, gossip and instant decisions was a distinct part of that amazing trip. I am sure we are going to cherish this enjoyable all girls trip all our life. 

Beautiful Stories

Those Beautiful Stories

Missing those bright mornings 

Those careless time

Those girly giggles

Those stupid fights

The grass were greener

And flowers were fresh

Interwoven in my memories

Are those beautiful stories

Those moments could never come back

No matter how much I look back

But I have lived there once

With full cheerfulness

SAFDARJANG TOMB

SAFDARJANG TOMB

It happened on one boring Saturday afternoon. I was just browsing through the net and reading and a dear friend called up and asked me to meet. It was a perfect opportunity to do away with my boredom, so I asked her to come to Safdarjang Tomb. A place I have been planning to go for long. Like many remnants of Delhi, today Safdarjang Tomb is lying unnoticed in the western end of Lodhi road. I went there long time back to interview one of the archaeologist regarding Mughal architecture but could not actually visit the tomb. So, this was the perfect opportunity for me to plunge in.   

Known as the “The Last Flicker in the Lamp of Mughal Architecture”, this monument is not visited by many tourists today as most of us don’t know about it. I am sure it is not even listed in many websites that show places to visit in Delhi. This magnificent monument was completed in 1754 as a memorial of Mirza Muqim Abul Mansur Khan, popularly known as Safdarjung by his son Nawab Shuja-ud-Daulah of Awadh. Safdarjung was the prime minister of Muhammad Shah who was a Mughal emperor from 1719 to 1748. In fact, it was Emperor Muhammad Shah who gave him the title of 'Safdarjung'.

If you have been to Humayun’s Tomb, you can definitely find resemblance in its architecture.  Safdarjung's tomb represents the last phase of the Mughal style of architecture. The tomb of Safdarjung was built in red sandstone and buff stone. There are two graves here, one of Safdarjung and the other is of his wife's. The square central chamber of the mausoleum is surrounded by eight rooms all around. Since it is not much visited by people, it is quite peaceful as compared to other monuments of Delhi.

Today, though this monument is lying unnoticed, it is one of the beautiful reminisce of the royal Mughal era. And definitely worth a visit for all those who want to take a glimpse of   Delhi’s glorious past. 

Kai Po Che

The simple yet effective story, wonderful camera angles, superb background score coupled with brilliant acting by newcomers made this film a worth watch. After a long time (since Barfi) Bollywood has churned out a real good cinema.  Kai Po Che is an effective and interesting adaptation of Chetan Bhagat’s Three Mistakes of My Life.

The characterisation of all the three protagonists is done very vividly. The protagonists look like real characters, people with whom we can relate, people who are real. Not having well-known stars in the film has worked in its favour by giving it a freshness that is detached from typical Hindi films. Rajkumar Yadav, Amit Sadh and Sushant Singh Rajput Ishan perfectly jelled in their respective roles and made the narrative even more wonderful. Sushant Singh Rajput, one more gem of my home town remains the heart of the film.

The first half of the film is an endearing tale of friendship and male bonding as each friend tries to help the other. The second half is a sensitive portrayal of how the Bhuj earthquake in 2001 and then the Godhra riots of 2002 change their lives and relationships forever.

There is no Bollywood type fighting from the bad man, no larger than life sets and no actual song and dance sequence. The film revolves around three real characters and how they react and respond in different situations to achieve their dreams and aspirations.  Many people are referring it as coming of age cinema.

The film unties the madness that most citizens of our country have about cricket, politics and the effects on the process of growth and the ethos of the country. There's no over-the-top, filmy, dramatic dialogues, instead, those in the film sound very realistic and genuine.

Songs like “Meethi Boliyan” and “Manjha” gels very-well with the flow of film and that is what touches your heart.

Anay Goswamy’s camera work made the film look much richer and beautiful. The camera work is simply amazing. Each and every shot is very well framed and imbibed in the story to bring out the correct emotions. The first half of the film has beautiful backdrops, to portray the dreams of the three friends. And the second half of the film that shows the harsh realities of life is also captured in the subtle camerawork and cinematography. The use of handheld camera adds to the sense of both simmering intimacy and rising tensions. Either it is the beautiful landscape, narrow lanes, the naturally lit house of Omi, the gloomy shades of earthquake or orange glooms of Godhra massacre, every shot is a treat to its viewers.

The portrayal of the Godhra massacre is sensitively handled and the fear and brutality of the moment is conveyed without resorting to costless bloodletting. Similarly the uncontrolled cheerfulness of the moment after an Indian cricket teams wins a match is portrayed with equal realism.

Thought-provoking, moving and ultimately heart-warming, Kai Po Che! is what great cinema is made of.

Madhubala

Every February, candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. A candle light dinner, soft music, dim lights and a romantic movie are the main ingredients for a special and fun-filled Valentine's Day celebration.  Keeping in spirit of the festival today I thought of writing a blog on this special day.

 Well, its not going to be about over-hyped love or this over fantasized feeling. But about a special person born on this day, the day that is celebrated as the day for loved once. Mumtaz Jahan Nehlavi better known as Madhubala - the eternal beauty was born on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 1933. Perhaps was no coincidence with such a birthday that Madhubala would grow up to become one of the most beloved romantic actresses of India. But her life could not share the happy endings of many of her films.

The first image that comes to my mind whenever I think of her is a shot from the song- Mohe Panghat Pe (from film Mughle-azam) when she unveils herself and we see a close-up of her face. She has an unmatched beauty and the most beautiful actress of all time.

Her first film that got immense success was 'Mahal' in 1949 with another legend of Indian film industry-Ashok Kumar. After that she became a very successful actress of Indian film industry. Later on she acted in many successful films as Mr & Mrs 55, Amar, Kal Hamara Hai, Shirin-Farhad, Howrah Bridge, Phagun,Kala Pani, Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi,Barsat Ki Raat and of course Mughal-e-Azam.

Though there are lots of things written and discussed about her love life, one thing is sure that despite being born on the V day, she never received the love that she deserved in her life. After the tragic break-up with Dilip Kumar (5 year- long affair) she got married to Kishore Kumar at the age of 27. When Kishore Kumar got to know, that she won’t be living for long, he bought a new house in Mumbai, kept a nurse to look after Madhubala and dumped her there. In a month or so he came to see her, he didn’t take her phone calls. So she died there alone and depressed.

The beauty of Madhubala is often compared with many new actresses, but none of them can match up to her beauty and elegance. While reading about her today here are some of the important facts that I thought are worth sharing-

1. Madhubala’s real name is Mumtaz Jehan Begum Dehlani. It was Devika Rani, founder of Bombay Talkies who gave her the title Madhubala.

2. She is the only Indian actress to have starred in a film whose title is her name. It was her first flop.

3. Those who worked with Madhubala said her skin was so fair and translucent that when she chewed paan, “you could almost see the red colour going down her throat”.

4. Her discipline for work was unparalleled - she was always the first one to turn up at the studio and would leave sharp at 6pm. Punctuality, commitment to work and professionalism were her hallmarks.

5. Her self-control was amazing. Her world began and ended in a film studio. She never attended any parties, film premieres of functions, film festivals, picnics or races for fund-raising initiatives.

6. She had no fascination for jewellery - either on-screen or off-screen. She hardly wore any because she considered it a waste of money.

7. She was extremely generous though. When she had established herself as an actress, she would always carry about Rs 2,000-3,000 rupees with her, never hesitating to loan / donate it someone who asked for help.

8. Despite acting in 66 films, she never received an award. It is widely believed that her distracting good looks did her a disservice - names like Meena Kumari, Nargis, Waheeda Rahman was considered more of actress material.

9. Madhubala stopped acting when she was 27.

10. She had a fear of crowds and of being mobbed. No guests or journalists were allowed on her sets. The author found that she was ‘the grand dame of privacy’, unwelcoming, unapproachable, reclusive, obsessed about her performance to the point of rudeness.

11. Frank Capra was willing to give her a break in Hollywood. She refused.

12. One of her films, Hanste Ansu (1950) was given an adult certificate, leaving the 17-year old actress unable to see her own movie.

13. A rather bad film she acted in, titled Jwala, is the only film where you get to see Madhubala in colour. And what a treat it is - her rich, golden brown hair, accompanied with her milk-n-roses complexion.

14. She had a heart disease right from birth. She died at 36, the same age at which her Hollywood counterpart, Marilyn Monroe passed away.

15. She was quite a poetess herself. In her last few years, when she was ailing, she remarked sorrowfully:

Jab zara kaam ki samajh aayee

Toh uparvaale ne kaha

Ab bas