Mumbai, Aug 1 (NationPress) On the birth anniversary of the iconic actress Meena Kumari, filmmaker Siddharth P. Malhotra has reflected on the profound and emotional journey of adapting her story for the screen.

Given rare access to her handwritten letters and personal diaries by the late star's family, Malhotra revealed how these intimate documents have altered his perception of the woman behind the “Tragedy Queen” image.

Siddharth mentioned in an interview with IANS, “While the world recognizes Meena Kumari as a legendary actress, the tragedy queen, my responsibility to tell her story, alongside Kamal Saab, changed everything when we accessed her handwritten letters and personal diaries. Reading her words in her own script, and his, made it possible to connect with her not just as an icon, but as a real woman. That’s how Meena Ji and Kamal Saab became a part of my life. Their presence influences every decision I make in writing, casting, and directing. I often find myself asking them, ‘Is this the right choice?’”

“It’s almost like they guide us, co-creating through their energy and essence. From scripting to casting, it feels as if they are actively participating with us. As for the actress who will portray Meena Kumari—someone who must encapsulate her life from the age of 18 to 38—there has been interest from numerous candidates. However, I’ve decided to leave the final choice to Meena Ji. Today, on her special day, I trust she will guide us in selecting the one meant to bring her to life.”

Additionally, Siddharth P. Malhotra expressed, “Understanding her through her poetry, her craft, her personal connections, and insights from those who knew her has profoundly impacted me. On this day, I feel her blessings, urging us to honor her and Kamal Saab’s legacy in the most sacred, sincere, and heartfelt manner.”

Meena Kumari passed away on March 31, 1972, due to liver cirrhosis. Her final project, “Gomti Ke Kinare,” was released posthumously.