Sabiha Khanum

Sabiha Khanum (; born Mukhtar Begum; 16 October 1935 – 13 June 2020) was a Pakistani film actress. She is also known as the "First Lady of Pakistani Cinema", and is often recognized for her role in Pakistani cinema during the 1950s and 1960s. The recipient of the Pride of Performance and Nigar Awards, she debuted in Lollywood films with Beli, and also appeared in television dramas.

She appeared mostly in Santosh Kumar's films, playing protagonist roles opposite him. Sabiha and Santosh are sometimes known for the on-screen chemistry they shared and built following the 1950s and 60s films, in particular after they worked in the film Qatil (1955).

Early life Sabiha Khanum was born Mukhtar Begum in a village near Gujrat in Punjab, Pakistan, to Mohammad Ali (Maahia), who was from Delhi, and Iqbal Begum (Baalo), who was a stage and film actress from Amritsar. She was awarded the 6 Nigar Award and the Pride of Performance Award for her acting career.

Filmography Television series

Film Year Title Language Role(s) Notes 1950 Beli Debut film 1963 Nigar Award Best Actress Shikwa 1999 Nigar Award Millennium Award Herself 2000 Nigar Award Honorary Gold Medal Herself

Artistry and legacy In the book Pakistan Cinema, 1947–1997, author Mushtaq Gazdar noted that Khanum's acting style was influenced by Indian film actress Madhubala. Khanum's career as an actress lasted over four decades, and she is referred to in the media as the "First Lady of Pakistani cinema".