In her illustrious career spanning over five decades, Waheeda Rehman has graced Indian cinema with iconic performances in films like Neel Kamal, Bees Saal Baad, Khamoshi, Pyaasa, Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam, Guide, CID, and Chaudvin Ka Chand. Known for her grace and determination, the veteran actor has always been vocal about her choices, often defying industry norms.
At the recent Jaipur Literature Festival, Waheeda Rehman revisited her early days in Bollywood, recounting her decision to retain her name despite pressures to change it. Reflecting on her debut with the 1956 film CID, she said, “When I came as a newcomer from Chennai to Mumbai, I was called to sign a contract by Guru Dutt ji. My mother also came along with me. He said that we want to change your name because it’s long and not good. When they said that they don’t like it, I felt really bad. That was so rude! My mom and dad kept my name, who are you to tell me that it’s not good? I refused to change it. The screen can show Waheeda Rehman and you can call me Waheeda while working, it shouldn’t matter if it’s long.”
Waheeda shared that Guru Dutt, following the industry trend, tried to convince her with examples of renowned stars who had changed their names. “He gave examples of Dilip KumarMadhubala, Meena Kumariand many others. I had a lot of pride in myself at that time, I have mellowed down with maturity. I told them a clear no, because my parents gave me this name and I like it. They said that the name doesn’t have glamour and sex appeal. I said that whatever you say, I will not change it,” she added.
Raj Khoslathe director of CID and a close associate of Guru Dutt, was initially skeptical of Waheeda’s insistence. She recalled his reaction: “Whenever we sign a new artist, he or she works according to our terms and conditions. You being a newcomer, why are you keeping conditions in front of us?” To this, the 16-year-old Waheeda confidently responded, “It should be a give and take. My mother had to sign my contract as I was only 16 years old. They were shocked to see such a young girl saying, ‘That is what I want to do,’ with dominance and her conditions.”
Three days later, the filmmakers relented, agreeing to keep her name unchanged.
