Durga Khote: From Widowhood at 26 to Mughal-E-Azam Stardom and Dadasaheb Phalke Award

• Durga Khote, born Vita Lad in 1905, faced financial distress after being widowed at 26, leading her to enter the entertainment industry.
• Despite societal taunts, she became a pioneering actress, starring in early films like "Farebi Jaal" and "Maya Machhindra," and was the first actress in a Marathi talkie.
• She played Jodha Bai in "Mughal-e-Azam" and Rishi Kapoor's grandmother in "Bobby," showcasing her versatility across nearly 200 films.
• Durga Khote received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award, becoming the fourth Indian woman to do so, and was once considered the richest actress.
• Her autobiography, "Mee, Durga Khote," details her life of professional success amidst personal tragedies, including the loss of her second son.

Why It Matters: Durga Khote overcame personal tragedy and societal norms to become a legendary and pioneering actress.