Vyjayanthimala, Mala Sinha to Kimi Katkar: Here’s how our veteran Bollywood actresses look today

In the 1950s and 60s, Vyjayanthimala was the undisputed queen of the silver screen with classics like 'Madhumati', 'Sangam' and 'Naya Daur'. Dubbed as "the dancing queen", she pioneered the importance of classical dance in Hindi films and to give a cultural heft to commercial cinema. As we continue to celebrate the legacy of this actress and dancer, she is revered as an exponent of Bharatanatyam and an icon of grace - as her work transcended from acting in movies to preserving India's living traditional arts.

Also known as the "Dream Girl", Hema Malini dazzled audiences and left a lasting impression with memorable roles in 'Sholay', 'Seeta Aur Geeta' and 'Meera'. Never shying away from controversial or daring roles, and with her talents, versatility and glamour she was able to be both sophisticated and fascinating - and it is no surprise she became an admired Bollywood star of the 70s and 80s - and even today - a respected classical dancer and parliamentarian proving she still has the influence of glamour and elegance.

Waheeda Rehman had an extraordinary quality of screen presence and some of the finest soul-shaking performances in films such as 'Guide', 'Kaagaz Ke Phool' and 'Chaudhvin Ka Chand'. She set the standard for naturalistic acting in her time, giving Hindi cinema a more elevated artistic sensibility. Later she moved adeptly into some of the most formidable supporting parts, while maintaining dignity and grace. Today she is held with esteem as a symbol of mortality and grace, still fantastically and extravagantly beautiful in Indian cinema.

Asha Parekh became a beloved figure and face of Hindi film with movies like 'Teesri Manzil', 'Caravan' and 'Kati Patang'. She was a lively, vivacious young woman, besides just being a lead heroine starring in films. She went on to make her mark in the industry as a Director and Producer and also served as chairperson of the Censor Board, influencing the industry off the screen as well. Presently, Asha Parekh is a highly regarded veteran actress.

Zeenat Aman made some bold modern statement in Bollywood with films like 'Hare Rama Hare Krishna', 'Satyam Shivam Sundaram' and 'Don'. She was the antithesis to traditional portrayals of women and replaced stereotypes with unabashed glamour and self-confidence and how heroines were written in the 70s. Today, the actress has forged a new relationship with audiences through social media, where her unapologetic thoughts keep generating respect across generations.

With films like 'Pyaasa', 'Dhool Ka Phool' and 'Maryada', Mala Sinha was an iconic face of Hindi film through the 50s and 60s her strong persona added depth and versatility to her characters. She was an actress that was able to deliver glamour and grace with meaning and character. In later years Mala Sinha retired unobtrusively from acting but she will always be remembered as one of Bollywood's respected actors and a stable actress whose work will always attract film enthusiasts.

Mumtaz's journey from humble beginnings to superstardom is regarded as one of the most inspiring journeys in Bollywood history. From her unforgettable roles in films such as 'Do Raaste' and 'Khilona', she was the perfect combination of charm, emotion and chemistry on screen, especially when alongside Rajesh Khanna. While she left her film career while it was at its peak, she left a legacy of fierce resilience and magnetic presence which still makes her one of the most beloved actress of her time.

Kimi Katkar made a name for herself during the 1980s and 90s with movies like 'Hum' and 'Aditya 369' amongst others. Her glamour and boldness on screen would feature her in iconic songs like “Jumma Chumma” with Amitabh Bachchan and would establish her as a popular star of her time. Although she stepped away from the public eye, she will always be remembered as one of the most beautiful actresses of her time.

Nagma was introduced to Bollywood in the 1990s with 'Baaghi' opposite actor Salman Khan and went on to become a household name in South Indian cinema as well. Her notable contributions extended to her versatile performances in multiple languages and collaborated at a time in Bollywood when stars often didn’t collaborate outside of their industry. Nagma has shifted her gears toward politics today, however, her cinematic career will always serve as a reminder of her colorful screen presence.