The annals of Indian cinema shine a little brighter today as veteran actress Vyjayanthimala is adorned with one of the nation’s most prestigious honors, the Padma Vibhushan. On a pleasant Chennai day, the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, convened with the distinguished actress, who has recently been acknowledged for her indelible mark on the arts with the nation’s second-highest civilian award.
In the modern age of social media, PM Modi turned to what is known as X, a platform assuming the role previously held by Twitter, to beam with pride and share his meeting with the cinema icon. “Glad to have met Vyjayanthimala Ji in Chennai. She has just been conferred the Padma Vibhushan and is admired across India for her exemplary contribution to the world of Indian cinema,” the Prime Minister posted, alongside a snapshot capturing the memorable event. The meeting saw the Prime Minister, elegantly dressed in a white shawl trimmed with red and green, extending a traditional greeting with hands clasped, while Vyjayanthimala exuded grace in her white and gold printed saree.
This accolade adds to Vyjayanthimala’s commendable collection of honors—she was previously presented with the Padma Shri, the fourth-highest civilian award, by the Government of India in 1968. Her talents surfaced early, as at the tender age of seven, she performed a classical Indian dance before Pope Pius XII, a performance that certainly forecasted her exceptional career in the performing arts.
Her legacy, however, does not solely bask in the light of the past. Recently, Vyjayanthimala’s enduring allure and contribution to dance and cinema drew Hema Malini, another titan of Indian cinema, to her residence. The visit was documented with heartfelt affection on Instagram, where Hema Malini posted a series of pictures with Vyjayanthimala, who was radiant in a yellow saree, as opposed to Hema Malini’s choice of a striking green suit.
The assembly was, in Hema Malini’s own words, “the most memorable day of my life – meeting my role model, the icon Vyjayanthimala along with her lovely family at her Chennai residence yesterday.” The dialogue between the two screen legends traversed past and present, filled with nostalgia and reverence for Vyjayanthimala’s body of work. Hema Malini’s reflections encapsulated a genuine respect for her peer: “She is so full of life, still so full of dance in her.” The shared moments and discussions highlighted Vyjayanthimala’s continuing influence on Indian culture and her inspiring presence in the world of dance and film.
Vyjayanthimala, whose career commenced with the Tamil film ‘Vaazhkai’ at just 16 years old, went on to etch her name in cinematic history with stellar roles in films such as ‘Devdas’, ‘Sangam’, ‘Madhumati’, and ‘Naya Daur’. These films have become cornerstones of Indian cinema, contributing to the fabric of the nation’s cultural heritage.
The Padma Awards of 2024, particularly through the distinction of Vyjayanthimala, have reinforced the national regard for figures who have sculpted their legacy through the arts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit and subsequent acknowledgment highlight a tradition of ceremonial respect and public appreciation for those who exemplify the nation’s illustrious tapestry of cultural contributions.
Vyjayanthimala’s recognition, therefore, serves not only as an acknowledgment of her personal achievements but also stands as a beacon for aspiring performers who seek to follow in the footsteps of her indelible grace and dedication. Her Padma Vibhushan is a testament to a lifetime of artistry that will continue to influence and inspire for generations to come.
(With inputs from ANI)
