Indian cinema: History
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Women in Indian cinema: Firsts
The origins of Indian cinema can be traced back to Dadasaheb Phalke's 'Raja Harishchandra', which is considered to be the first Indian film. (See also Hiralal Sen ) However, the making of this groundbreaking film was not without its challenges. One of the biggest hurdles that Phalke had to overcome was finding a woman who was willing to play the heroine in the film.
Despite his best efforts, Phalke was unable to convince any woman to take on the role. Faced with no other option, he decided to cast a male actor in the part of the female lead. Thus, the first heroine in Indian cinema was not a woman, but a man in disguise.
This anecdote is a testament to the perseverance and ingenuity of early Indian filmmakers who had to navigate numerous obstacles to bring their visions to life. It also highlights the gender disparities that existed in the industry at the time and serves as a reminder of the progress that has been made towards gender equality in Indian cinema over the years.
Hence India Times- The Times of India has brought these firsts for us:
Durga Bai Kamat (1899 – May 17, 1997)
Durga Bai Kamat was an Indian actress and the first female actor in Indian cinema. She made her debut in the second film of Dadasaheb Phalke, 'Mohini Bhasmasur'. After this, she acted in several movies and became a popular face in the industry. Her last film was Deepness, which was released in 1980. Kamat paved the way for other female actors in Indian cinema and will always be remembered for her contribution to the industry.
Fatima Begum (1892-1983) Fatima Begum was a pioneer in Indian cinema and the first female director in the industry. She was initially a stage actress and later went on to direct and act in various plays. In 1926, she released her first film, 'Bulbul Ae Paristaan', which marked India's first female producer, director, and writer. Fatima Begum's contribution to Indian cinema will always be remembered and celebrated.
Fearless Nadia (January 8, 1908 – January 9, 1996) Fearless Nadia was an Australian-born Indian actress and stuntwoman. She made her debut in the film 'Hunterwali' in 1935 and went on to become the first stuntwoman in Indian cinema. Nadia performed her own stunts, which was a rare feat at that time, and her fearless attitude made her a beloved figure in the industry. She broke barriers and proved that women could be strong and capable on-screen.
Jaddan Bai (1892 – April 8, 1949) Jaddan Bai was an Indian singer and music director and the first woman to hold this position in Indian cinema. She was a celebrated figure in her time, and her talents were recognized by famous personalities such as Motilal Nehru. Jaddan Bai's legacy continued with her daughter, the legendary actress Nargis Dutt, who went on to become one of the most iconic figures in Indian cinema.
Vijayalakshmi Vijayalakshmi was an Indian cinematographer and the first woman to hold this position in Indian cinema. She came from a family with a rich background in filmmaking, and her father and brother were also directors. Despite societal expectations at the time, Vijayalakshmi pursued her passion for cinematography and enrolled in film school. In 1985, she became the first woman in Asia to work with the inductive camera for movies. Her contribution to the industry opened doors for other women in cinematography and inspired a new generation of filmmakers.
See also
Indian cinema: History
Cinema in India before 1913 Covers the era before the first Indian feature film
CinemaScope and 70mm films Mainly about the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s.
70mm films in India/ South Asia I.e. Part 2 of this article. Mainly about the 1960s and 1970s.
Cinerama theatres in India, Pakistan, Sri LankaMainly about the 1960s.
Colour films in South Asia: 3-- Hindi-Urdu films. Mainly about the 1950s and 1960s.
