Born on April 27, 1912, in Saharanpur, Uttar Pradesh, Zohra Mumtaz Sehgal was a legendary Indian actress, dancer, and choreographer whose artistic journey spanned more than six decades. Raised in a traditional Muslim household, Zohra defied societal expectations with her bold personality and tomboyish spirit. Despite losing vision in her left eye due to glaucoma at the age of one, she remained spirited and energetic throughout her life.

After her mother’s passing, Zohra traveled to Europe, where her aunt encouraged her to pursue ballet. Against the odds, she cleared the entrance exam to a renowned ballet school in Germany on her first attempt—a pivotal moment in her artistic development.

Zohra's career took a defining turn when she met Uday Shankar while performing in the Shiv-Parvati ballet. Impressed by her skill and presence, Shankar promised her a position in his dance troupe upon her return to India. True to his word, he offered her a spot on his Japan tour, officially marking the beginning of her professional dance career.

In 1945, Zohra switched gears joining the Indian People's Theatre Association (IPTA) to start her career as an actor. Her maiden film with IPTA was a landmark in its achievement of critical plaudits and international acceptance confirming its screening at the Cannes Film Festival. Acting had a beginning in theatre for her, but from 1982 onward, she ventured into films with James Ivory's The Courtesans of Bombay, directed by Merchant Ivory. Accordingly, this was her entry in television and British cinema, with Zohra going on to give memorable performances.

Zohra Sehgal was acknowledged for her opposite tanning talent and her unparalleled contribution to Indian arts. Over a period, she received some of India's most coveted awards: the Padma Shri (1998), Padma Bhushan (2002), Padma Vibhushan (2010). She had also received the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award in 1963, for her contribution to the performing arts.

In 2020, the Google Doodle was presented in her memory on the anniversary of Neecha Nagar (1946), which went on to win the Palme d'Or at Cannes.

Zohra Sehgal lived a full life, dancing into her 100th birthday in 2012, and she passed away in 2014, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire generations. On her birth anniversary, we remember a daring artist who imbued grace, humor, and strength in every character she portrayed.