Bollywood’s beloved “golden girl” of the 1960s and 1970s, Helen, turns 86 today, and her unmatched charm continues to captivate fans across generations. Known for her glamorous cabaret dance numbers, Helen brought a unique energy and elegance to Hindi cinema, creating a legacy that remains unparalleled. Throughout her career, Helen single-handedly redefined the idea of dance in Bollywood, adding glamour and an unmistakable oomph factor to her performances. Her timeless classics, like ‘Piya Tu Ab Toh Aaja’ and ‘Monica Oh My Darling’, remain etched in the hearts of music lovers and film enthusiasts alike.
On her special day, Bollywood’s “Bhidhu,” Jackie Shroff, paid a heartfelt tribute to Helen. Taking to Instagram, he shared a video featuring her iconic moments, including images from her legendary song ‘
O Haseena Zulfon Wali
‘ with Shammi Kapoor. His warm wishes reflect the love and admiration that the film fraternity and fans continue to have for this iconic performer. Helen’s contribution to Indian cinema is a true treasure, and on her 86th birthday, the world celebrates the timeless charm and talent of Bollywood’s original dancing diva.
During the 1960s and 1970s, Helen’s presence was synonymous with club dance numbers in Hindi films, making her a staple in Bollywood’s musical sequences. While her on-screen persona exuded glamour and elegance, her journey to fame was anything but easy. Helen endured extreme hardships, including periods of starvation, to achieve her iconic status.
Her early life was marked by immense struggle. At just three years old, she fled Burma (now Myanmar) with her mother Marlene and younger brother, traveling on foot for over nine months to reach Dibrugarh, Assam. Born to a half-Spanish, half-Burmese mother and a French father, Helen’s story is one of resilience and determination.
Meanwhile on the work front, Shroff will be seen in the upcoming film ‘Baby John’, scheduled to be released on December 25. The movie stars Varun Dhawan, Keerthy Suresh, and Wamiqa Gabbi.