Manorama, though the name might not ring a bell for many, her face is undoubtedly recognizable. She graced the silver screen with her comedic genius and portrayed vampish characters with equal finesse. With an illustrious career spanning six decades in Hindi cinema, Manorama started as a leading lady but transitioned into a remarkable character artist as she matured.
Early Life of Actress Manorama
Born on August 16, 1926, in Lahore, Manorama’s father, Isaac Daniel, was an Indian Christian professor at an engineering college, while her mother, of Irish origin, was named Erin Isaac Daniels. Being the only child, Erin received her education and classical dance training in Lahore, along with music lessons.
Entry into Films
At the tender age of 9, fate intervened when Manorama’s dance performance caught the eye of veteran film producer Roop K. Shourie, who was present at her school function. Impressed, Shourie decided to cast her in his film and renamed her Manorama from Erin.
Manorama Debut
Although Roop K. Shourie contemplated casting her, it was his friend and film producer Dalsukh Pancholi who gave Manorama her break in the film Khazanchi (1941). Following this, she appeared in several other films, but political tensions during India’s independence and partition delayed their release.
Transition to Mumbai
Before India’s independence, Manorama married actor Rajan Haksar. However, with the partition, they moved to Mumbai, where her husband pursued a career in producing and acting. Despite initial struggles, Manorama found success in the Punjabi film Lachhi (1949), marking the beginning of her prolific career.
Career Highlights
Manorama predominantly portrayed comedic and vampish roles, a shift attributed to her weight gain over time. However, she showcased versatility by playing Dilip Kumar’s sister in Ghar Ki Izzat (1948). Throughout her career, she appeared in over 160 Hindi and Punjabi films, including Parineeta, Half Ticket, Mujhe Jeene Do, Bombay to Goa, and Water.
Memorable Role in Water
Her portrayal of Madhumati in Deepa Mehta’s Water (2005) garnered acclaim from Hollywood critics, solidifying her legacy. Despite changes in the cast during the film’s tumultuous production, Manorama remained Mehta’s preferred choice for the role.
Iconic Character: Kaushalya Aunty
Among her notable performances, Manorama’s role as Kaushalya Aunty in Sita Aur Geeta stands out, earning her recognition across Indian households. She often advised aspiring actresses to maximize their presence on-screen, drawing from her own experiences.
Personal Life
Manorama married Rajan Haksar, with whom she had a daughter named Rita Haksar, who pursued acting but later settled abroad after marriage. Despite their divorce, Manorama and Rajan maintained a cordial relationship.
Later Years and Passing
After relocating to Delhi and appearing in television serials, Manorama returned to Mumbai. However, her later years were marred by health issues, culminating in her passing on February 15, 2008, at the age of 81. Sadly, her demise went unnoticed by Bollywood, marking the end of a luminous career that faded into obscurity.