Some lesser known facts about Suraiya, the renowned actress and playback singer in the golden era of Indian cinema

Suraiya, the renowned actress and playback singer in the golden era of Indian cinema, had a fascinating career. Here are some lesser-known facts about her:

1. Early Singing Talent:
   Suraiya’s singing talent was evident from a very young age. She began singing on All India Radio (AIR) at the age of 10 and became a popular radio artist even before entering the film industry.
2. Acting Debut:
   Suraiya made her acting debut at the age of 14 in the film “Taj Mahal” (1941), where she played the role of the young Mumtaz Mahal. Her screen presence and talent were noticed, setting the stage for her acting career.
3. Versatility as an Artist:
   Suraiya was not only a successful actress but also a highly acclaimed playback singer. Her melodious voice graced numerous films, and she delivered many hits during her singing career.
4. First Indian Actress to Receive a National Award:
   Suraiya received the National Award for Best Actress for her performance in the film “Mirza Ghalib” (1954). She became the first Indian actress to receive this prestigious award.
5. Popular Pairing with Dev Anand:
   Suraiya shared a popular on-screen pairing with Dev Anand in the 1940s. They starred together in several successful films, creating a romantic and musical duo that resonated with audiences.
6. Music and Acting Awards:
   Suraiya won several awards for her contributions to both acting and singing. Her recognition as a versatile artist was reflected in her multiple awards and accolades.
7. Interrupted Engagement with Dev Anand:
   Suraiya and Dev Anand were engaged in the late 1940s, but the engagement was eventually called off. Rumors suggest that the interference of Suraiya’s grandmother played a role in the separation.
8. Retirement from Films:
   Suraiya retired from acting in the mid-1950s after the film “Mango” (1954). Despite offers, she chose to step away from the silver screen and focus on her personal life.
9. Love for Urdu Poetry:
   Suraiya had a deep love for Urdu poetry, and this passion was evident in her soulful renditions of ghazals and other poetic compositions. Her singing was often praised for its emotive quality.
10. Post-Retirement Life:
    After retiring from films, Suraiya lived a private life. She chose to stay away from the limelight, and her later years were marked by a focus on personal pursuits.

Suraiya’s legacy is remembered for her immense talent as both an actress and a playback singer. Her contributions to the world of Indian cinema continue to be celebrated, making her a timeless icon.