Asha Parekh Biography And Her Net Worth
Asha Parekh is one of the most legendary actresses in Indian cinema, known for her incredible performances in Hindi films during the 1960s and 1970s. She became one of the most sought-after actresses of her time, earning fame not only for her acting skills but also for her graceful dance performances and charismatic screen presence. Apart from acting, She is also an accomplished film director, producer, and philanthropist. She was honored with the Padma Shri Award by the Government of India in 1992 for her contributions to Indian cinema. With a career spanning more than five decades, She remains an iconic figure in Bollywood. This article provides a detailed insight into Asha Parekh’s biography, age, height, weight, affairs, net worth, career, and filmography.
Personal Details of Asha Parekh
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Asha Parekh |
| Date of Birth | October 2, 1942 |
| Age | 81 years (as of 2024) |
| Birthplace | Bombay, British India (now Mumbai, India) |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Zodiac Sign | Libra |
| Profession | Actress, Film Director, Producer, Dancer |
| Height | 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) |
| Weight | 65 kg (143 lbs) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Grey |
| Education | Graduate |
| Debut Film | Aasmaan (1952) |
| Years Active | 1952–1999 |
| Marital Status | Unmarried |
| Affairs/Rumors | Rumored Relationship with Nasir Hussain |
| Net Worth | $15 Million (Approx.) |
Early Life and Bio
Asha Parekh was born on October 2, 1942, in Bombay, British India, into a middle-class Gujarati family. Her father was Hindu, and her mother was a Muslim, making her upbringing culturally diverse. She developed an early interest in dance and acting, and her mother enrolled her in classical dance training. She was a disciple of the famous dance guru Pandit Bansilal Bharati, which helped her hone her skills as a Bharatanatyam dancer.
Career Overview
Asha Parekh made her Bollywood debut as a child artist in the film Aasmaan (1952), but she gained prominence as a leading lady in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Her first major break came with Nasir Hussain’s film Dil Deke Dekho (1959), opposite Shammi Kapoor, which established her as a rising star. She became the favorite actress of Nasir Hussain and went on to work in several of his successful films.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, She delivered numerous box-office hits, including Kati Patang (1970), Teesri Manzil (1966), Caravan (1971), Do Badan (1966), and Love in Tokyo (1966). Her versatility allowed her to excel in a wide range of roles, from romantic dramas to action-packed thrillers and social films.
She later transitioned into film direction and production in the 1980s and 1990s, and also served as the first female chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). Despite stepping away from acting in the late 1990s, she remained an influential personality in the Indian film industry.
Notable Filmography
Hindi Films List:
| Year | Film Name | Character | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1952 | Aasmaan | Child Artist | Debut Film |
| 1959 | Dil Deke Dekho | Neeta | Breakthrough Role |
| 1961 | Jab Pyar Kisi Se Hota Hai | Nisha | Romantic Blockbuster |
| 1963 | Phir Wohi Dil Laya Hoon | Mona | Commercial Success |
| 1966 | Teesri Manzil | Sunita | Musical Hit |
| 1966 | Love in Tokyo | Asha | Romantic Drama |
| 1966 | Do Badan | Asha | Critically Acclaimed |
| 1967 | Baharon Ke Sapne | Geeta | Social Drama |
| 1970 | Kati Patang | Madhavi | Filmfare Best Actress Nominee |
| 1971 | Caravan | Sunita | Musical Superhit |
| 1973 | Heera | Asha | Popular Film |
| 1974 | Prem Kahani | Kamini | Critically Acclaimed |
| 1977 | Main Tulsi Tere Aangan Ki | Tulsi | Family Drama |
| 1989 | Ghar Ka Chiraag | Cameo | One of her last films |
Television Career List:
| Year | TV Series | Character | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1993 | Kora Kagaz | Director | Family Drama |
| 1995 | Dal Mein Kaala | Producer | Comedy Show |
Awards and Achievements
Asha Parekh has been honored with numerous awards and accolades for her contributions to Indian cinema. Some of her most notable recognitions include:
- Padma Shri Award (1992) – Government of India
- Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award (2002)
- Filmfare Award for Best Actress Nomination – Kati Patang (1970)
- IFFI Indian Personality of the Year Award (2022)
- Dadasaheb Phalke Academy Award – Contribution to Indian Cinema
Her performances in films like Kati Patang, Teesri Manzil, and Caravan remain some of the finest in Bollywood’s history.
Personal Life & Affairs
She has remained unmarried throughout her life. She was rumored to have had a long-term relationship with director Nasir Hussain, but she never publicly acknowledged the affair. She has always emphasized that she remained single due to her dedication to her career and family.
Even though she never married, She found great companionship in her close friends, including Waheeda Rehman and Helen, with whom she continues to share a strong bond.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Asha Parekh has an estimated net worth of $15 million, which she has accumulated through:
- Acting in over 90 films
- Directing and producing television shows
- Brand endorsements and stage performances
- Real estate investments in Mumbai
She owns a luxurious bungalow in Mumbai and lives a comfortable life. Despite her wealth, she has always been known for her simplicity and charitable work. She has actively contributed to healthcare and education initiatives, supporting numerous charitable organizations.
Current and Future Projects
Though she has retired from acting, She remains active in Bollywood events, film festivals, and interviews. She has also penned her autobiography, “The Hit Girl”, which was released in 2017.
She continues to inspire the younger generation with her incredible journey and remains one of the most respected and celebrated actresses in Indian cinema.
Final Words
Asha Parekh’s journey from a child artist to one of Bollywood’s most celebrated actresses is truly remarkable. Her contributions to Indian cinema, television, and social work make her a legendary figure in Bollywood. Her elegant performances, impeccable dance skills, and strong personality continue to inspire millions of fans across generations.
