
Meena Kumari
ActingAbout Meena Kumari
Meena Kumari (born Mahjabeen Bano; August 1, 1933 – March 31, 1972) was an Indian actress, as well as an occasional poet, playback singer and model. She was described by critics as a historically incomparable actress of Hindi Cinema. Though best known for her sensitive portrayals of struggling women, earning her the title "The Tragedy Queen", she starred in over 90 films that varied in genres, from traditional melodramas, mythological adventures, comedies, historicals and Muslim socials. At the peak of her career, she was the highest-paid actress, and set fashion trends for women in the 1950s.
Career Statistics & Market Influence
Analyzing the cinematic journey of Meena Kumari reveals a career defined by diverse artistic exploration. With a total of 50 major appearances, the actor has established a significant footprint in global cinema.
Genre Dominance: Drama
The majority of Meena Kumari's filmography leans towards the Drama genre. Audience data suggests that viewers respond most favorably to this persona, though their versatility has allowed for successful crossovers into other categories.
The "Box Office" Signature
With a 18% Success Ratio (movies rated above 6.5), Meena Kumari remains a reliable draw for studios. Their peak performance was recorded in Chandan Ka Palna, which continues to be the benchmark for their career rating-wise.
Best Meena Kumari Movies Ranked
Must-watch hits from Meena Kumari's career based on audience ratings.
Complete Filmography & Success Status
Tracking the career evolution and box office verdicts of Meena Kumari.
| Year | Movie | Character | Success | More |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1980 | Sahira | (archive) | Flop | Similar → |
| 1972 | Pakeezah | Nargis / Sahibjaan | Average | Similar → |
| 1972 | Dushman | Malti | Flop | Similar → |
| 1971 | Mere Apne | Anandi Devi / Auaji (Aunt) | Average | Similar → |
| 1970 | Jawab | Vidya | Flop | Similar → |
| 1968 | Viruthan Shanku | Bhargavi | Flop | Similar → |
| 1968 | Baharon Ki Manzil | Nanda / Radha | Hit | Similar → |
| 1967 | Noorjehan | Mehrunnisa / Noor Jehan | Average | Similar → |
| 1967 | Majhli Didi | Hema | Average | Similar → |
| 1967 | Chandan Ka Palna | Shobha Rai | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1967 | Bahu Begum | Zeenat Jahan Begum | Average | Similar → |
| 1967 | Ramanan | Madhavi Amma | Flop | Similar → |
| 1966 | Phool Aur Patthar | Shanti Devi | Average | Similar → |
| 1966 | Pinjre Ke Panchhi | Heena Sharma | Flop | Similar → |
| 1965 | Bheegi Raat | Neelima | Average | Similar → |
| 1965 | Kaajal | Madhavi | Flop | Similar → |
| 1965 | Purnima | Purnima | Flop | Similar → |
| 1964 | Main Bhi Ladki Hoon | Rajni | Flop | Similar → |
| 1964 | Gazal | Naaz Ara Begum | Average | Similar → |
| 1964 | Chitralekha | Chitralekha | Flop | Similar → |
| 1963 | Bandipotu | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1963 | Kinare Kinare | Neelu | Average | Similar → |
| 1963 | Dil Ek Mandir | Sita | Flop | Similar → |
| 1963 | Akeli Mat Jaiyo | Seema | Average | Similar → |
| 1962 | Aarti | Aarti Gupta | Flop | Similar → |
| 1962 | Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam | Chhoti Bahu | Hit | Similar → |
| 1962 | Main Chup Rahungi | Gayatri | Flop | Similar → |
| 1961 | Pyaar Ka Saagar | Radha / Rani | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1960 | Kohinoor | Rajkumari Chandramukhi of Rajgarh | Flop | Similar → |
| 1960 | Dil Apna Aur Preet Parai | Karuna | Flop | Similar → |
| 1959 | Char Dil Char Rahen | Chavli | Average | Similar → |
| 1959 | Shararat | Shabnam | Flop | Similar → |
| 1958 | Sahara | Leela | Hit | Similar → |
| 1958 | Yahudi | Hannah / Lydia | Average | Similar → |
| 1958 | Dawn | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1957 | Sharada | Sharada Ram Sharan | Average | Similar → |
| 1956 | Bond | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1956 | Halaku | Niloufer Nadir | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1956 | Mem Sahib | Meena | Hit | Similar → |
| 1956 | Ek-Hi-Rasta | - | Average | Similar → |
| 1955 | Azaad | Shobha | Flop | Similar → |
| 1955 | Bandish | Usha Sen | Flop | Similar → |
| 1955 | Adl-e-Jehangir | - | Flop | Similar → |
| 1954 | Chandni Chowk | Zarina | Flop | Similar → |
| 1953 | Parineeta | Lalita | Hit | Similar → |
| 1953 | Two Acres of Land | Thakurain | Super Hit | Similar → |
| 1953 | Daaera | Sheetal | Average | Similar → |
| 1952 | Baiju Bawra | Gauri | Average | Similar → |
| 1951 | Madhosh | Soni | Flop | Similar → |
| 1939 | Leatherface | - | Flop | Similar → |
Meena Kumari - Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best movie of Meena Kumari?
According to audience ratings, the best movie starring Meena Kumari is "Chandan Ka Palna" with a rating of 10.0/10.
How many movies has Meena Kumari acted in?
Meena Kumari has been featured in at least 50 major films throughout their career.
What are some other popular movies by Meena Kumari?
Other notable films include "Pyaar Ka Saagar", "Halaku", and "Two Acres of Land".




