Born:
August 13, 1936
Birthplace: Triplicane, Madras Presidency, British India
Trivia:
Debuted at the age of thirteen in the Tamil film Vazhkai (1949). Refused the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress for Devdas (1955), stating her role wasn't a supporting one. Three-time winner of the Filmfare Best Actress Award, for Sadhna (1958), Ganga Jumna (1961) and Sangam (1964). Retired from acting following her marriage, making Prince (1969) her last shot film. Was conferred with the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, India's highest award recognising practicing artists, in 1982. Was member of the Lok Sabha from 1984 until 1993 and of the Rajya Sabha from 1993 until 1999. Chaired the 48th National Film Awards in 2001. Is an avid golfer, one of the oldest in the city of Chennai.