Alcohol and the Untimely Deaths of Film Legends

"Let me drink while I’m still alive" – this line from a song has been heard by many, but have we ever stopped to think that this could be the sad reality of many film stars? Yes, several actors and actresses in the film industry have lost their lives due to their alcohol addiction. These stars once dazzled the world now only remain in our memories.

Rajesh Khanna

Rajesh Khanna, the first superstar of Bollywood, captivated audiences with his brilliant performances in films like Aradhana (1969), Ittefaq (1969), Anand (1971), Kati Patang (1971), and many more. However, despite his professional success, he struggled with loneliness, which led him to alcohol. His dependence on it eventually caused severe liver damage, and at the age of 69, Rajesh Khanna passed away. His tragic life is a reminder that even the brightest stars can fall into the shadows of their battles.

Meena Kumari

Known as the "Tragedy Queen," Meena Kumari's life was sorrowful. After separating from her husband, actor Dharmendra, she turned to alcohol, which began to take a toll on her health. She spent many nights intoxicated, and the damage to her liver eventually led to her death at the young age of 39. Meena Kumari was a true star, known for films like Pakeezah, Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam, and Baiju Bawra. Her life was a heartbreaking tale of a woman who could only find solace in alcohol amidst her turmoil.

Kanhaiyalal

Kanhaiyalal, who became famous for his role as "Sukhi Lala" in the iconic film Mother India (1957), was a talented actor known for portraying negative and comedic characters. His career spanned over 105 films, including Andaz, Ganga Jamuna, and Upkar. However, his battle with alcoholism took a toll on his health, and he passed away on August 14, 1982. Kanhaiyalal's death was a tragic end to the life of an actor who had contributed immensely to the Indian film industry.

Guru Dutt

Guru Dutt, a visionary director and actor, was a genius behind films like Pyaasa (1957) and Kaagaz Ke Phool (1959). However, behind the scenes, he struggled with deep loneliness, especially after his separation from his wife Geeta Dutt. The pain of solitude drove him to alcohol, and on October 10, 1964, Guru Dutt's life ended tragically. His death, likely due to excessive drinking, marked the end of a brilliant career that had shaped Indian cinema in profound ways.

Vimi

Vimi, who shot to fame with her role in Hamraaz (1967), was once a rising star. However, her career quickly declined as she faced a string of flops, which, combined with her issues, led her to alcohol addiction. Her health deteriorated, and at the young age of 34, she passed away due to liver complications. Her death, marked by its tragic circumstances, was a sad end to the life of an actress who once seemed destined for great success.

Leela Naidu

Leela Naidu, one of the most beautiful actresses of the 1950s and 60s, had a remarkable career that included a victory at the Femina Miss India contest in 1954 and roles in films like Anuradha (1960), Yeh Raste Hain Pyaar Ke (1963), Aabroo (1968), and The Guru (1969). Despite her success, Leela struggled with personal turmoil and found solace in alcohol, which ultimately contributed to her untimely death at the age of 69 in 2009. Her death marked the end of an era for one of Bollywood’s most celebrated actresses.

Rishi Kapoor

Rishi Kapoor, a member of the illustrious Kapoor family, led a successful career and had a personal life filled with love and family. However, he too struggled with alcohol, which took a toll on his health. In 2020, after a long battle with cancer, he passed away. His life serves as a reminder that no matter how privileged or successful one may be, alcohol can still affect anyone. Some of his popular films include Bobby (1973), Damini (1993), Chandni (1989), Mulk (2018), and Sharma Ji Namkeen (2021).

Parveen Babi

Parveen Babi was one of the most glamorous and bold actresses of the 70s. However, behind her stunning looks and successful career, she was struggling with a deep addiction to alcohol. The addiction took over her life, and her mental health deteriorated as well. She became reclusive, and her career faded. Parveen's tragic life ended in isolation, and her body was found three days after her death, with no family members to claim her. Some of her best-known films include Deewar (1975), Amar Akbar Anthony (1977), Kalia (1977), and Karz (1980).

Sanjeev Kumar

Sanjeev Kumar, known for his versatile roles in films like Aandhi (1975), Khilona (1970), Dastak (1970), and Shikar (1968), was also a victim of alcoholism. His personal life was marred by his unrequited love for actress Hema Malini, who rejected his proposal. Unable to cope with the rejection, Sanjeev Kumar turned to alcohol, which led to his premature death at the age of 47 due to a heart attack. Despite his health problems, he continued to give memorable performances throughout his career.

By Priyanka Yadav