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Meet Actress Who Tragically Died In Plane Crash, Married Into Royal Family, Karisma Kapoor Played Her In Biopic; She Was... Movie's Name Is...
A Tragic Story
In this feature, we will talk about the tragic tale of an actress who lost her life in a horrific plane crash. Decades later, questions surrounding her untimely death still linger.
Who Are We Talking About?
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We’re talking about Zubeida Begum, an iconic actress who died in a plane crash in 1952. Her husband, Maharaja Vijayendra “Victor” Singh of Fatehpur, was also killed in the same accident.
Zubeida’s Acting Career
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Despite resistance from her family, Zubeida pursued her passion for acting from a young age. She is best known for playing the lead role in Alam Ara (1931), the first Indian talkie. Her career began in silent films, including Gul-E-Bakavali by Kanjibhai Rathod.
Fought Against All Odds for Love
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Zubeida’s personal life was as dramatic as her films. According to reports, she was previously married but unhappy. She later found love with Maharaja Hanwant Singh of Jodhpur. Zubeida had a son from her earlier marriage, but she and Hanwant Singh tied the knot in December 1950, after she converted to Hinduism.
Shyam Benegal’s Film
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Director Shyam Benegal brought Zubeida's story to the big screen in his 2001 film Zubeidaa, which became a fan favorite and won a National Award.
Karisma Kapoor played the role of Zubeidaa, Manoj Bajpayee portrayed Maharaja Vijayendra Singh, and Rekha also featured in the film.
Zubeida’s Son Behind the Movie
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The screenplay for Zubeidaa was written by none other than Zubeidaa’s real-life son, noted journalist and filmmaker Khalid Mohamed.
The Fatal Plane Crash
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On the ill-fated morning of 26 January 1952, the plane carrying Maharaja Hanwant Singh and Zubeidaa crashed in Godwar, Rajasthan, while they were en route for a political campaign. Both died on impact. Many still believe it was part of a larger conspiracy.
Son Beheaded
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Zubeidaa’s son with Hanwant Singh, Rao Raja Hukum Singh (nicknamed Tutu), met a horrifying end years later. He was murdered in Jodhpur, and his beheaded body bore over 20 injuries.
Haunting Rumors
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Members of the royal family have claimed that Zubeidaa’s spirit haunts Umaid Bhawan Palace, though no official reports have confirmed these sightings.
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