Mumbai, August 13, 2025 – The Bollywood industry mourns the loss of veteran actress Nazima, fondly known as the “Resident Sister” of Hindi cinema, who passed away on Monday, August 11, at the age of 77. Nazima, born Mehrunnisa on March 25, 1948, in Nashik, Maharashtra, left an indelible mark on the golden era of Indian cinema with her heartfelt portrayals of sisters and friends in over 47 films during the 1960s and ’70s. She was residing in Dadar, Mumbai, with her two sons at the time of her passing. The cause of her death has not been disclosed.
Nazima’s journey in cinema began as a child artist under the screen name Baby Chand, debuting in Bimal Roy’s classic Do Bigha Zamin (1953), where she played the elder sister ferried to school by rickshawallah Balraj Sahni. Her early roles in Roy’s Devdas (1955) as young Paro’s classmate and Biraj Bahu (1954) as Abhi Bhattacharya’s sister showcased her natural talent. She also appeared in Raj Kapoor’s children’s film Ab Dilli Door Nahin (1957), cementing her presence in the industry.
Transitioning to adult roles, Nazima became synonymous with playing the supportive sister or cheerful friend, earning her the affectionate title of Bollywood’s “Resident Sister.” Her memorable performances include starring alongside Sanjeev Kumar in Nishan (1965, “Hai Tabassum Tera”) and Raja Aur Runk (1968, “O Firki Wali,” “Sang Basanti”), as well as with Rajesh Khanna in Aurat (1967) and Doli (1969). Her role as Manoj Kumar’s sister in Beimaan (1972) earned her a Filmfare Best Supporting Actress nomination, while her portrayal of Asha Parekh’s sister in Aaye Din Bahaar Ke (1966, “Ae Kash Kisi Deewane Ko”) remains etched in audiences’ memories, particularly for her dramatic staircase scene. Other notable films include Manchali (1973), Prem Nagar (1974), Anurag (1972), and Abhinetri (1970), where she played Hema Malini’s impish friend.
Nazima’s final film, Dayar-e-Madina (1975), marked her exit from the industry as she chose to embrace marriage and a spiritual life, stepping away from the limelight. Her cousin, Zarin Babu, confirmed her passing via a social media post, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fans and industry peers. “Nazima’s warm screen presence and emotive performances brought life to countless films. She was the heart of the sisterly roles that defined an era,” read an official statement from CINTAA.
Nazima’s legacy as a versatile and beloved actress endures through her contributions to Hindi cinema’s golden age. Her performances, filled with warmth and authenticity, continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring her place in Bollywood’s history.
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