On Friday, family members and close associates of legendary actor and dancer Vyjayanthimala Bali strongly dismissed rumors circulating on social media regarding her health. They reassured the public that the veteran actress is in good health and urged people not to spread baseless speculations.
The clarification came from Chennai-based Carnatic musician Girijashankar Sundaresan, who took to Instagram to issue a statement denying the false reports.
“Dr. Vyjayanthimala Bali is in good health, and any news that says otherwise is false. Before sharing, please validate the news source. Please stop spreading baseless rumours. We are better than this,” Sundaresan wrote in his Instagram story on Friday.
This statement was later shared by Nandini Bali, who is married to Vyjayanthimala’s only son, Suchindra Bali, further affirming that the veteran actress was doing fine.
Vyjayanthimala’s Recent Performance and Ongoing Engagements
Interestingly, Sundaresan had recently posted a video on January 18 showcasing Vyjayanthimala Bali’s graceful dance performance to the Carnatic composition ‘Daasiganunta’ set in raga Abheri. The song was sung by Sundaresan himself, and the performance took place at Kala Pradarshini in Chennai, a well-known venue for classical music and dance events.
The video, which gained widespread appreciation from her fans and admirers, highlighted the actor-dancer’s continued passion for Bharatanatyam, a classical dance form she has championed throughout her life. Many social media users applauded her dedication to the art despite stepping away from the film industry decades ago.
A Remarkable Cinematic Journey
Vyjayanthimala Bali began her illustrious film career at a young age, making her acting debut in the Tamil film Vaazhkai in 1949. She soon expanded her repertoire to include Telugu and Hindi films, gaining recognition as one of the most talented and versatile actresses of her time. Her grace, expressive acting, and unparalleled dancing skills set her apart in the golden era of Indian cinema.
One of the most memorable milestones in her career was her portrayal of Chandramukhi in Bimal Roy’s 1955 classic Devdas, alongside Dilip Kumar and Suchitra Sen. The role earned her the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress. However, she famously declined the award, asserting that her role was substantial enough to be considered a lead performance rather than a supporting one. This bold move was an early indication of her strong personality and belief in her craft.
Following Devdas, Vyjayanthimala’s career flourished, and she starred in a string of successful Hindi films. She worked with leading actors of her time, such as Raj Kapoor, Dev Anand, and Dilip Kumar, cementing her status as one of the most sought-after actresses in Bollywood. Her performances in films like Naya Daur (1957), Madhumati (1958), Ganga Jumna (1961), Sangam (1964), and Jewel Thief (1967) were highly acclaimed, further elevating her stardom.
At the peak of her career, Vyjayanthimala made the surprising decision to step away from the film industry. Her decision was influenced by her marriage to Dr. Chamanlal Bali, who was a family physician to the legendary actor Raj Kapoor. She chose to focus on her personal life and continued to dedicate herself to her passion for Bharatanatyam, performing at prestigious events and training the next generation of dancers
Apart from her contributions to cinema and dance, Vyjayanthimala also had an eventful political career. She joined the Indian National Congress in 1984 and actively participated in various political activities. However, in 1999, she resigned from the Congress party and subsequently joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in the same year.
Although her political journey was not as long as her cinematic career, she remained a respected public figure, often voicing her opinions on social and cultural matters. Her dignified presence and commitment to various causes kept her in the public eye even after she withdrew from active politics.
Over the years, Vyjayanthimala has been the recipient of numerous awards and honors for her contributions to Indian cinema and classical dance. In 1968, she was awarded the Padma Shri, one of India’s highest civilian honors. Decades later, in 2024, she was conferred the prestigious Padma Vibhushan, India’s second-highest civilian award, in recognition of her immense contributions to the arts and culture of the country.
Despite stepping away from films, Vyjayanthimala Bali remains an iconic figure in the history of Indian cinema and classical dance. Her elegance, talent, and grace continue to inspire generations of artists and admirers. Even at an advanced age, she remains active in the world of Bharatanatyam, frequently attending cultural programs and performances.
Her legacy is not only defined by her cinematic achievements but also by her dedication to Indian classical arts. Through her performances, teachings, and unwavering passion, she has ensured that the traditions of Bharatanatyam continue to thrive.
As rumors about her health circulated, the firm rebuttal from her family and friends serves as a reminder to verify information before spreading false news. Fans and well-wishers can take comfort in the fact that the legendary artist is in good health and continues to be an inspiration to many. Her journey, both in films and beyond, stands as a testament to her talent, resilience, and unwavering spirit.