Today, June 1, 2025, marks the 96th birth anniversary of the legendary actress Nargis Dutt, and her son, Sanjay Dutt, has taken to social media to remember her with a heartfelt tribute. The actor shared his emotions and cherished memories of his mother, expressing the deep void her absence has left in his life.
Sanjay Dutt's social media post included poignant black-and-white photographs. One image captured a young Sanjay with his parents, Nargis and Sunil Dutt, in a touching family moment. The other photograph was a solo portrait of Nargis, a still from one of her memorable films, showcasing her timeless beauty and grace.
In his caption, Sanjay wrote, "Happy birthday maa, I miss you everyday and love you more." This simple yet profound message resonated with fans and followers, who also remember Nargis as not only an accomplished actress but also a beloved figure in Indian cinema. The post quickly garnered attention, with many fans sharing their own memories and admiration for the late actress.
Nargis Dutt, born on June 1, 1929, was an icon of Indian cinema, celebrated for her remarkable talent and captivating screen presence. She is best remembered for her role as Radha in the classic film "Mother India" (1957), a performance that solidified her place as one of the greatest actresses in Indian film history. Her career spanned several decades, during which she delivered memorable performances in films like "Raat Aur Din", "Jogan", and "Babul".
Beyond her acting career, Nargis was deeply committed to social work. She, along with her husband Sunil Dutt, co-founded the Ajanta Arts Cultural Troupe, which organized performances to entertain Indian soldiers. In the early 1970s, she became the first patron of The Spastic Society of India, advocating for disability rights long before it became a mainstream cause. Her dedication to social causes earned her a nomination to the Rajya Sabha in 1980, making her only the second film actor, after Prithviraj Kapoor, to receive this honor. She was also awarded the Padma Shri in 1958 in recognition of her contributions to Indian cinema and society.
Nargis Dutt's life was tragically cut short when she passed away on May 3, 1981, at the age of 51, after battling pancreatic cancer. Her death came just days before Sanjay Dutt's Bollywood debut with the film "Rocky," a moment she was eagerly anticipating. Her absence has been deeply felt by her family, friends, and fans ever since.
Sanjay Dutt has often spoken about his mother's influence on his life, describing her as his "guiding light." On previous occasions, such as Mother's Day and Women's Day, he has shared heartfelt posts dedicated to her, expressing his love and gratitude. These tributes offer a glimpse into the strong bond they shared and the profound impact she had on his personal and professional journey.
As fans and family celebrate Nargis Dutt's 96th birth anniversary, her legacy as an actress, a social worker, and a loving mother continues to inspire. Sanjay Dutt's emotional tribute serves as a reminder of the enduring power of a mother's love and the lasting impact of a true icon.