Veteran actress Saira Banu is marking the birth anniversary of her late mother, Naseem Banu. On Wednesday, she shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, posting a series of throwback photos capturing moments with her mother at various stages of their lives. Along with the pictures, Saira wrote a touching note, reflecting on how her mother raised her and her siblings while overcoming numerous challenges.
She wrote in the caption, “The first of January marks the beginning of a New Year for the world, but for me, it is also the birth anniversary of my beloved mother. Today, as we embrace this new beginning, I want to pay tribute to the woman who shaped my world, my mother, Naseem Banu Sahiba. Known as “Pari Chehra," she wasn’t just a star, she was a constellation in her own right, the first female superstar of Indian cinema. Yet, behind her charming beauty and legendary fame was a soul steeped in resilience, grace, and love".
She continued, “We were a family of four, my grandmother Shamshad Abdul Waheed Khan, her sister Khurshid Begum, my elder brother Sultan Ahmed, and myself. Life thrust us into the embrace of single parenthood early on, and at just 16, Appaji took on the mantle of our protector and guide. With a determination beyond her years, she ensured we were not only cared for but also given wings to soar. Her cinematic journey began with Sohrab Modi’s Pukar, where she played the role of Empress Noorjahan. The film’s impact was so profound that audiences removed their shoes before entering cinemas, as though stepping onto a Mughal Court".
Saira Banu revealed that icons like Dilip Kumar and Amitabh Bachchan had described her mother as the most beautiful woman they had ever seen. However, her beauty went beyond her appearance. It was reflected in how she harmonized tradition with modernity. Despite their education in London, she ensured that they remained deeply connected to their Desi heritage.
She further mentioned, “Every summer holiday was spent in Bombay or Delhi, reconnecting with our heritage. When I chose films over further studies, it was her ingenuity that shaped my path. She put a keen attention on the costumes for Junglee, ushering in a new era of cinematic fashion, and transformed the way make-up was approached in Indian cinema, with innovations that became the hallmark of my career".
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“But what truly defined Appaji was her devotion. Every success I have achieved is rooted in her sacrifices. She was a mother who gave not just life, but also purpose, structure, and infinite love. As I share this, I know no words can capture her charisma. Happy Birthday Appaji…no words would ever be enough when it comes to you, be at peace wherever you are", she added.
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