The story of Zubeida Begum continues to intrigue cinema lovers decades after her death. Remembered as an actress whose life bridged the worlds of films and royalty, her extraordinary journey later inspired Shyam Benegal’s acclaimed 2001 film ‘Zubeidaa’. Written by her son, journalist Khalid Mohammed, the film introduced a new generation to a life filled with ambition, love, heartbreak, and tragedy. Starring Karisma Kapoor in the lead role, alongside Rekha, Manoj Bajpayee, and Surekha Sikri, Zubeidaa remains one of Indian cinema‘s most celebrated biographical dramas.
Life that inspired an acclaimed film
Zubeida Begum enjoyed recognition as an actress during the late 1940s and early 1950s. Her eventful personal life eventually became the inspiration behind‘Zubeidaa’, with her son Khalid Mohammed transforming family history into a widely appreciated screenplay. The film explored the emotional complexities of a woman caught between personal aspirations, relationships, and royal responsibilities.
Early career faced family resistance
Despite belonging to a prosperous and influential Muslim family, Zubeida’s decision to pursue acting reportedly met with strong resistance at home. Her father, businessman Qasim Bhai Mehta, is said to have opposed her entry into films from the beginning.According to widely reported accounts including Bombay Chronicle, she had once been cast opposite Geeta Bali in the film ‘Usha Kiran’. However, the project never reached completion. Reports claim that her father arrived at the shooting location carrying a pistol, bringing production to a halt. Soon afterward, her marriage was arranged with the son of a family acquaintance.The marriage resulted in the birth of her son, Khalid Mohammed. The relationship, however, eventually ended in divorce.
Marriage into royalty ended in tragedy
Zubeida later married Maharaja Hanwant Singh of Jodhpur. Their married life was cut short on January 26, 1952. The couple died in an airplane crash near Sumerpur in Rajasthan. While the incident was officially treated as an accident, speculation surrounding the tragedy has continued for decades.Following the deaths of his parents, their son, popularly known as Tutu, was brought up under the care of the Rajmata of Jodhpur. He later studied at Mayo College in Ajmer and eventually married Rao Rani Rajeshwari Kumari of the Alwar royal family. The couple had two children.
Another heartbreaking chapter
The family’s misfortunes continued years later. On April 17, 1981, Tutu was reportedly found beheaded on the streets of Jodhpur.Beyond documented history, Zubeida’s story has also become part of local folklore. For decades, stories have circulated claiming that her spirit still lingers around Umaid Bhawan Palace and a nearby school associated with the royal family.According to these long-standing legends, certain rooms within the premises remain locked because they are believed to be connected with her spirit. However, these claims have never been verified and remain part of local myths rather than established historical fact.
