Rehana Sultan, a celebrated actress from the golden era of Bollywood, recently found herself in dire straits due to severe health issues and financial troubles. The 1970s actress, known for her path-breaking roles in movies like "Dastak" and "Chetna," had to undergo cardiac surgery. Unfortunately, her financial condition had been deteriorating for years, leaving her and her family in a challenging position to cover her medical expenses.
Rehana Sultan, who made a significant mark in the film industry with her powerful performances, had been away from the limelight for several years. Over time, she faced severe financial difficulties, which only worsened with her declining health. Recently, Rehana required urgent cardiac surgery, which added to her financial woes. According to reports, Rehana has been residing with her brother in Mumbai, who himself is not in a position to manage the exorbitant medical expenses. The surgery, being a necessity for her survival, placed the family under immense stress.
Upon learning about Rehana Sultan’s critical condition and financial crisis, the film fraternity rallied around her. Ashoke Pandit, producer and president of the Indian Film & Television Directors' Association, took the lead in coordinating support for the ailing actress. He shared that Rehana's brother contacted him, explaining the gravity of her health situation and their inability to fund the necessary surgery. Ashok Pandit responded promptly by arranging for her hospitalization in Juhu and then reached out to the broader film community for financial assistance.
The response from the industry was overwhelming. Prominent personalities like Rohit Shetty, Rajan Shahi, Ramesh Taurani, Vipul Shah, and Javed Akhtar, among others, immediately extended their support. They quickly transferred funds to ensure that Rehana received the urgent medical care she needed. This act of solidarity showcases the deep respect and affection that the industry holds for its veterans, especially those like Rehana who have contributed significantly to Indian cinema.
Ashoke Pandit expressed his gratitude, stating that the treatment was quite expensive, but thanks to the collective efforts of his colleagues, the necessary funds were raised almost overnight. "The surgery was a success, and Rehana is now stable," he added, highlighting the effectiveness of their swift action. He also mentioned that Rehana was deeply touched by the outpouring of support, becoming quite emotional upon realizing that her contribution to the industry had not been forgotten.
Rehana Sultan’s career in Bollywood, though not long-lasting, left an indelible mark. She was one of the bold actresses of her time, taking on unconventional roles that challenged societal norms. Her portrayal of a sex worker in "Chetna" (1970) was groundbreaking and remains etched in the memories of those who witnessed her powerful performance. Winning the National Film Award for Best Actress for "Dastak" the same year further cemented her place in the annals of Indian cinema.
Her other notable films include "Haar Jeet" (1972), "Prem Parbat" (1973), and the political satire "Kissa Kursi Ka" (1977), each showcasing her versatility and depth as an actress. Despite stepping away from the limelight, her influence continued to inspire many filmmakers and actors.
Ashoke Pandit, reflecting on the events, emphasized the importance of taking care of the industry’s veterans. He remarked, "It’s a matter of shame if we don’t take care of such people who are an integral part of the history of our industry." His words resonate with a call to action for the industry to continue supporting its older members who may face similar hardships.
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