Shyam Benegal‘s 2001 film ‘Zubeidaa‘ stands out as a timeless classic, captivating audiences with its emotionally evolving narration. The movie featured Karisma Kapoor, Rekha, Manoj Bajpayee, and Surekha Sikri in pivotal roles. The screenplay was based on journalist Khalid Mohamed’s account of his mother, Zubeida Begum, a tale that blended glamour, heartbreak, and unanswered questions into a gripping cinematic experience.
The real-life inspiration for the film, Zubeida Begum, was a celebrated actress of the 1950s whose life came to a tragic end in a plane crash on January 26, 1952. The crash claimed her life and that of her husband, Maharaja Hanwant Singh of Jodhpur. While the official narrative cites the crash as an accident, speculation about a possible conspiracy persists, casting a shadow of intrigue over the events. Even decades later, whispers of unresolved mysteries at Umaid Bhawan Palace keep the story alive in public memory.
Born into a prominent and affluent Muslim family, Zubeida grew up immersed in an environment rich in artistry. Her father, Qasembhai Mehta, was a successful businessman, and her mother, Faiza Bai, was a talented singer. Zubeida’s passion for the performing arts, particularly singing and dancing, was nurtured from a young age. However, her dreams of becoming an actress clashed with her father’s conservative values, creating tension within her family.
Despite familial resistance, Zubeida pursued her aspirations. She was reportedly cast in the film ‘Usha Kiran‘, where she was set to act alongside Geeta Bali. Unfortunately, the project never came to fruition. It is said that her father, armed with a pistol, intervened on the film set, determined to halt the production. Soon after, he arranged her marriage to a family friend’s son. Zubeida’s first marriage resulted in the birth of her son, Khalid Mohamed, but eventually ended in divorce. Her second marriage to Maharaja Hanwant Singh marked a turning point, entangling her in a series of controversies that shaped the remainder of her life.
Her integration into the royal household was anything but smooth, as reports suggest she faced resistance and a lack of acceptance. This turbulent chapter culminated in the 1952 crash, a devastating event that left an indelible mark. The tragedy was compounded by further misfortune. Her son with Hanwant Singh, Rao Raja Hukum Singh, nicknamed Tutu, met a gruesome end when he was murdered in Jodhpur. His beheaded body bore over 20 injuries, adding yet another layer of sorrow to Zubeida’s legacy.
Despite numerous investigations, Tutu’s murder case remains unsolved, shrouded in the same enigmatic aura that surrounds Zubeida’s life. There are eerie claims from members of the royal family that Zubeida’s spirit haunts Umaid Bhawan Palace, perpetuating the chilling mystique of her story. Even today, her life and death continue to intrigue and captivate, leaving behind a legacy that is as haunting as it is fascinating.
