Atypical heroine who showed little interest in conventional glamour

By Harsh Thakor*

On August 5th, Kajol celebrated her 50th birthday. Widely regarded as one of the most talented and well-rounded actresses of her era, she brought a unique vibrancy and zest for life that set her apart from many of her contemporaries. Her ability to convey a wide spectrum of emotions and fully embody her characters was unrivaled by any other heroine of her time.

Kajol portrayed a remarkable variety of roles throughout her career, showcasing her versatility. Her innocence, vulnerability, comedic timing, and magnetic intensity captivated audiences, leaving a lasting legacy in Indian cinema. Kajol's career mirrored the evolving nature of Indian cinema. She transitioned from a youthful romantic lead to taking on more complex roles, ultimately becoming a role model for aspiring actresses.

Unlike many of her peers, she often showed little interest in conventional glamour. Despite not fitting the traditional mold of beauty like Madhubala or Aishwarya Rai, Kajol's powerful screen presence and confidence drew audiences in. She was known for her disdain for elaborate costumes and jewelry, often pushing back against the commercial pressures of the industry.

In many respects, Kajol served as an antithesis to the typical heroines of her time. Despite her illustrious lineage—as the daughter of actress Tanuja and filmmaker Shomu Mukherjee—Kajol led a relatively private life, attending social events sparingly and keeping her circle of close associates small. She valued authenticity over the film industry's superficialities and was deeply committed to the roles she portrayed on screen.

Kajol was known for her meticulous approach; she would only perform a scene if she was genuinely convinced about it. Once she made up her mind, though, her performances would burst with compelling energy. In a time when many stars eagerly accepted stage shows, Kajol was remarkably selective about her appearances.

Kajol's journey began at St. Joseph's Convent in Panchgani, leading to her silver screen debut in the film "Bekhudi". Although it was a box office failure, her undeniable talent convinced many in the film fraternity that she was destined for stardom. In February 2011, she won her fifth Filmfare Best Actress award, tying with her aunt Nutan for the record of most Filmfare awards.

Kajol's composed demeanor throughout her career—never overly discouraged by failures or excessively thrilled by successes—speaks volumes about her humility. She often stated that she viewed herself as "Kajol first, then the character." In 1999, she married Ajay Devgan, which marked a significant transformation in her personal and professional life. Kajol's influence extends far beyond her films.

She exemplified the changing face of Indian cinema, evolving from a youthful romantic lead to an actress who took on complex roles, thereby becoming an inspirational figure for many. Her iconic on-screen chemistry with Shah Rukh Khan is celebrated as one of the best in Bollywood history. While she was an extraordinary actress, she didn't often venture into experimental or progressive roles, and critics noted that her acting style remained relatively consistent over the years.

Off-screen, Kajol is known for her philanthropic efforts. In 2008, she received the Karmaveer Puraskaar for her contributions to social service and has served as an international goodwill ambassador for The Loomba Trust, a charity focused on supporting widows and their children around the world.

Notable Films of Kajol

1. Baazigar (1993): In this thriller, Kajol played Priya, effectively conveying a range of emotions tied to love, trust, and betrayal alongside Shah Rukh Khan.

2. Udharr Ki Zindagi (1994): Portraying a granddaughter grappling with the grief of her son's death, Kajol delivered a performance of remarkable intensity and sensitivity at just under twenty.

3. Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (1995): In this iconic romantic drama, Kajol played Simran, a young woman caught between familial traditions and her desires, displaying the emotional nuances that became a cornerstone of the film's success.

4. Gupt (1996): At the height of her success, Kajol showcased her range by taking on a negative role, delivering a powerful performance.

5. Ishq (1997): In this romantic comedy, she brought a dynamic energy to the character of Kajal, enhancing the storyline with her expressive acting and impeccable comic timing.

6. Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998): As Anjali Sharma, Kajol masterfully depicted the intricate dynamics of friendship and love, earning her acclaim for emotional depth and strong chemistry with Shah Rukh Khan.

7. Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (2001): Playing Anjali, she portrayed a bold young woman whose love for Rahul, also played by Shah Rukh Khan, added emotional weight to the film's narrative.

8. Fanaa (2006): In the role of Zooni, a blind woman navigating the complexities of love and betrayal, Kajol's performance was characterized by vulnerability and strength.

9. My Name Is Khan (2010): Her portrayal of Mandira showcased the struggles of a single mother facing prejudice, resonating deeply with audiences.

10. We Are Family (2010): In this family drama, she embodied Maya, delivering a captivating performance while tackling themes of divorce and personal challenges.

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*Freelance journalist

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