Bina Rai’s Struggle for Stardom: From Hunger Strike to Becoming a Film Icon

Mumbai: India. Today marks the 16th death anniversary of the iconic 1960s actress, Bina Rai. Known for her remarkable performances in films like Anarkali (1953), Ghunghat (1960), and Taj Mahal (1963), Bina was one of the most admired actresses of her time. However, her entry into the world of cinema is a fascinating story of determination and rebellion.

Bina Rai’s passion for acting was so strong that she took an extreme step to pursue her dreams. In her college days, she came across an advertisement in the newspaper calling for an actress for a new film. The competition offered the opportunity to become the heroine in the upcoming film. Enthusiastic, Bina approached her parents with the request to let her go to Mumbai to participate. However, her family refused, as acting was not considered a respectable profession at the time.

Undeterred by their rejection, Bina went on a hunger strike, which forced her parents to relent. Eventually, she was allowed to move to Mumbai and enter the competition, where she triumphed. This victory earned her a cash prize of ₹25,000 and, more importantly, her first film role in Kali Ghata.

It was on the sets of this film that she met actor Prem Nath, who was previously romantically linked with the legendary Madhubala. Despite their past, Prem Nath and Bina developed a close bond, which soon blossomed into love. On the release day of Kali Ghata in 1951, Bina and Prem Nath got engaged, and they married in 1952.

Bina and Madhubala, both of whom played the iconic role of Anarkali, shared a unique connection. While Bina starred in the 1953 film Anarkali, she declined to reprise the role in Mughal-e-Azam, a role that was later portrayed by Madhubala.