First Female Villain to Win a Filmfare; From a Legacy of Powerful Women - Actress Celebrates 51st Birthday

Kajol ’s journey is a rare blend of tradition and transformation. With a legacy born out of courage and talent, she continues to shine as one of India’s most respected actresses. Whether redefining villainous roles or backing major hits, Kajol proves that great cinema runs in her blood.

Kajol: A Legacy of Film, Family, and Firsts in Bollywood

Mumbai – Celebrated Bollywood actress Kajol is not only known for her powerful performances but also for her rich film heritage that stretches across four generations. With a legacy beginning with her great-grandmother and extending to her own award-winning career, Kajol is the face of a dynasty that has helped shape Hindi cinema.

Four Generations of Bollywood Women

Kajol stands proudly as the fourth generation of her family in the film industry. Her deep roots in Bollywood begin with her great-grandmother Rattan Bai, who was among the earliest female actresses at a time when women in cinema were rare and often judged. Her bold step helped lay the foundation for a family of performers.

Grandmother Showed Grace on Screen

Kajol’s grandmother, Shobhna Samarth, became a household name in the 1940s. Best known for her role as Sita in "Bharat Milap" and "Ram Rajya", she captivated audiences with her elegance and soft presence. Her performances earned her widespread admiration for portraying traditional values with depth and grace.

Mother and Aunt Were 60s Superstars

Her mother, Tanuja, was a bubbly and natural actress known for hits like "Haathi Mere Saathi", "Jewel Thief", and "Anubhav". She also acted in Bengali cinema and remained a well-respected performer throughout the 60s and 70s.

Meanwhile, Kajol’s aunt Nutan remains one of the most critically acclaimed actresses in Indian film history. Known for her emotional depth and versatility, Nutan starred in classics like "Bandini", "Sujata", and "Seema". She won multiple Filmfare Awards and remains a benchmark for serious, sensitive acting in Indian cinema .

Kajol’s Rise in the Modern Era

With such a strong legacy behind her, Kajol had big shoes to fill—and she did so with flying colors. She made a mark with unforgettable roles in movies like:

• Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge
  
  
• Kuch Kuch Hota Hai

Fanaa

My Name Is Khan

Tanhaji

Her natural acting and emotional expressions made her a fan favorite. Whether playing a bubbly romantic or a heartbroken mother, Kajol brought every character to life.

First Actress to Win Filmfare for a Villain Role

In 1997, Kajol made history with her negative role in "Gupt", a psychological thriller. She shocked audiences with her intense performance and went on to become the first woman to win the Filmfare Award for Best Villain. The performance broke stereotypes about female roles and proved her incredible acting range.

Blockbuster With Husband Ajay Devgn

One of the major highlights of Kajol’s recent career was her film "Tanhaji: The Unsung Warrior", which she co-produced with her husband Ajay Devgn. The movie was a massive commercial success, earning ₹279.50 crore at the box office. Kajol played the strong role of Savitri Bai, Tanhaji’s wife, and added emotional weight to the action-packed historical drama.