From Aan To Shree 420: Remembering The 'Mud Mud Ke Na Dekh Girl' Who Redefined Bold Roles

Hindi cinema has produced many artistes whose distinctive screen presence and memorable performances have left a lasting impact on audiences. Among them was Nadira, the actress fondly remembered as the ‘Mud Mud Ke Na Dekh Girl’. Known for her bold roles, confident persona and striking style, she carved a unique place for herself in the film industry during the 1950s and 1960s.

Nadira’s death anniversary falls on February 9. Over a career spanning several decades, she appeared in more than 60 films and entertained audiences with her strong and unconventional portrayals.

Born on December 5, 1932, in Israel to a Jewish family, Nadira’s real name was Farhat Ezekiel. She grew up as a tomboy, often playing football and gilli-danda with boys. When her

family went through a difficult phase and moved to Mumbai, Farhat began searching for work to support them.

Her life changed in 1952 when filmmaker Mehboob Khan was casting for his film Aan, which revolved around a royal family. The role of a spoiled princess was initially meant for Nargis, but she could not commit due to her schedule with Raj Kapoor‘s Awara. Mehboob Khan then spotted Farhat, was impressed by her striking personality and named her Nadira. He cast her opposite Dilip Kumar, marking her debut.

In Aan, Nadira portrayed a bold and self-assured princess, a character quite different from the soft and shy heroines of that era. Her confident screen presence surprised audiences, and the film’s success made her a star overnight.

She followed it up with Nagma in 1953, whose songs became popular. In 1954, she appeared in films like Waris and Dak Babu, and in 1955 she featured in Raftaar and Jalan. However, it was her role in Raj Kapoor’s 1956 classic Shree 420 that brought her widespread recognition. Playing the character Maya, she became synonymous with the song ‘Mud Mud Ke Na Dekh’, earning her the enduring title of the ‘Mud Mud Ke Na Dekh Girl’.

Nadira was also part of several notable films including Pakeezah, Chhoti Chhoti Baatein, Kala Bazaar, Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai, Julie and Sagar. She was widely known for portraying negative or grey-shaded characters, often playing the glamorous woman who used charm and wit to influence the hero. Over the years, she worked alongside leading stars such as Ashok Kumar, Shammi Kapoor and Dev Anand.

Even in the 1980s and 1990s, she remained active, appearing in films like Swayamvar, Chaalbaaz, Aas Paas, Dahshat, Raste Pyar Ke, Laila, Jhoothi Shaan, Mehbooba, Godfather and Josh. She also appeared in television serials including ‘Ek Tha Rusty’ and ‘Margarita’.

Her personal life, however, saw its share of turbulence. Her first marriage to poet Naksh Layalpuri ended in separation. Her second marriage to Motilal Rajvansh lasted only a week.

Nadira passed away on February 9, 2006, but her fearless attitude, memorable performances and iconic ‘Mud Mud Ke Na Dekh’ style continue to remain a part of Hindi cinema’s legacy.