Rolls Royce epitomizes opulence, globally acclaimed as the pinnacle of luxury automobiles. In India, it serves as a status symbol for the affluent, gracing the garages of billionaires like Mukesh Ambani and Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan. However, one of the earliest Indian owners, in contrast to the typical elite names, was an actress who, despite not achieving superstar status, hailed from outside India and later retreated from the public eye after her career.
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First Indian Actress to Own Rolls Royce
Being a film enthusiast, it fascinates me to discover that Nadira, a yesteryears’ superstar, holds the distinction of being the first Indian actress to possess a Rolls Royce. Born as Florence Ezekiel in Baghdad to a Baghdadi Jewish family, Nadira ventured into acting at a young age, marking her debut in the 1943 film Mauj. Her prominence surged with Mehboob Khan’s Aan in 1952, portraying a Rajput princess. Achieving stardom in the ’60s, she reached the pinnacle of success, becoming the highest-paid actress in India and acquiring the luxurious Rolls Royce, leaving an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
Starting with humble beginnings, Nadira’s initial earnings of Rs 1200 for her debut film in 1943 marked a significant sum during that period. It’s intriguing to observe how, despite the modest start, she ascended to charge lakhs per film in the late ’50s and early ’60s, showcasing the remarkable evolution of her career. However, as with many stars, Nadira’s stardom gradually waned after the ’60s. Despite this, she persevered in acting, contributing memorable supporting roles in films like Pakeezah and Julie. The recognition for her talent came full circle when she earned the prestigious Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress for the latter.
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Later Years
In her later years, Nadira exhibited a discerning approach to film roles during the 80s and 90s. A notable appearance in Shah Rukh Khan’s Josh marked one of her final significant film roles, albeit in a cameo. As time unfolded, Nadira found herself secluded in her Mumbai residence, navigating the challenges of solitude, especially with most of her family having relocated to Israel. Confronted with health adversities like liver disease and meningitis, her journey concluded tragically with a cardiac arrest in January 2006, leading to a two-week coma before she passed away at the age of 73 in a Mumbai hospital. The poignant details of her later life and eventual departure highlight the complexities and struggles that often accompany the twilight years of a celebrated personality.
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