Nandini Karnataki, better known as Nanda, was a beloved Indian actress who left her mark on both Hindi and Marathi cinema. With a career spanning over three decades, she earned recognition for her roles in films such as Prem Rog, Jorro Ka Ghulam, Raja Saab, and Chaar Diwari, among others. On the occasion of her 85th birth anniversary, the legendary actress Saira Banu fondly reminisced about her close friendship with Nanda, sharing a heartfelt anecdote in her memory.
Saira Banu remembers Nanda on her 85th birth anniversary
Saira Banu took to Instagram to post a series of pictures featuring herself, Nanda, Dilip Kumar, and other close friends. In a touching caption, she recounted how her admiration and affection for Nanda grew over the years.
Saira began by recalling how they first met, writing, "My mother, Naseemji, along with Waheeda Apa and Sayeeda Apa, were neighbours at Nepean Sea Road for many years. Though I hadn’t seen many of Nandaji’s films, I had watched Chaar Diwari. In the early 1970s, I would occasionally see her at film gatherings with Waheeda Aapa, and we exchanged brief pleasantries. Years later, around 1980-81, Waheeda Aapa’s sister, Mrs. Sayeeda Rehman, invited me to inaugurate her flower shop at her home and requested a telephone line installation. Sahib’s office promptly arranged it."
"At the event, I met Nanda Taai again. She looked radiant, her simplicity shining through as always. By then, I had seen Jab Jab Phool Khile and a few other films. I couldn’t resist asking her, 'You have your own special place with the beautiful roles and magnificent performances you’ve rendered. Why have you deprived us of seeing you on celluloid?' She smiled warmly and replied, 'Thank you! You know, Saira, you are the only heroine who has ever said this to me. I appreciate it.'”
Nanda's friendship with Waheeda Rehman and others
Saira Banu went on to reflect on the cherished friendship between Nanda, Waheeda Rehman, Shakeel, and Jabeen Jaleel when she entered the film industry in the 1960s. She remembered hearing stories of their innocent fun, which were always filled with warmth. Nanda had once shared how she took the time to mentor new heroes, helping them perfect their performances. However, once these heroes found success, they often neglected her. Waheeda had also expressed her own disappointment in this regard.
As she continued in her post, Saira Banu described how their bond grew stronger over time, with the group becoming more like family. "Over time, Nanda Taai and I became like family. She grew fond of my mother and grandmother, while I admired her mother, Sushila Aaiee, who reminded me of my own selflessly raising her family. We celebrated festivals together, exchanging visits and gifts. I still cherish a green-beaded handbag and sequined boxes filled with Sankranti sweets that Sushila Aaiee had given me, with the note, 'Til Gud Khawa Ani God God Bola,'” she added.
Saira Banu went on to share that Nanda affectionately began calling her "Raja." Nanda loved the embroidered outfits Saira made for her, and after the passing of Manmohan Desai, she only wore white. In March 2014, for Gudi Padwa, Saira sent Nanda a white outfit. That evening, Nanda sent a heartfelt message, expressing her deep appreciation for the gift, saying it was beautiful and that she would wear it as soon as possible. They spoke at length that night, and Saira recalled Nanda sounding as cheerful as a bird chirping.
As she concluded the lengthy post, Saira Banu recalled the morning she learned of Nanda's death. "The next morning, Waheeda Aapa called me early. When I greeted her cheerfully, she said, 'No, Saira, it is not a wonderful day.' She broke the devastating news of Nanda Taai’s passing that morning. I rushed to her residence and found her lying peacefully, wearing the outfit I had sent. The dupatta she had admired the previous night was draped over her. Nanda Taai was more than a friend; she was a sister, confidante, and a source of warmth and sincerity. Our bond, built on trust and love, stood the test of time. I miss her deeply, but her grace and memories will forever remain in my heart."
Nandini Karnataki passed away at the age of 75 on March 25, 2014, following a massive heart attack.