On June 8, Dimple Kapadia turned 68. Over five decades, she’s given Indian and international cinema some of its most unforgettable performances. From a teenage star in Bobby to a global presence in Tenet, Dimple’s journey shows how talent, grace, and risk-taking can shape a powerful acting career.
Let’s take a look at five of her most iconic roles that defined her as one of India’s finest actresses.
1. Bobby (1973): The Teenage Star Who Took Over the Nation
At just 16 years old, Dimple made her big debut in Raj Kapoor’s Bobby, opposite Rishi Kapoor. She instantly captured hearts across India. Her fresh look, bubbly energy, and bold outfit — a polka-dotted top and black mini-skirt — became a style statement for young girls in the ’70s.
The movie was a love story between Bobby Braganza and Raj, from two different social classes. It became the highest-grossing film of 1973 and changed how Bollywood showed young love. Dimple’s performance was praised for being natural and strong, making her a superstar overnight.
2. Saagar (1985): A Powerful Comeback
After Bobby, Dimple took a long break from acting. She returned in Saagar, which also starred Rishi Kapoor and Kamal Haasan. Although another film (Zakhmi Sher) released before Saagar, it was Saagar that truly marked her comeback.
In this romantic drama, Dimple played a woman caught between two men who love her. Her performance was emotional and mature, showing that she had grown as an actress. Saagar was a big hit and was even chosen as India’s entry to the Oscars that year.
3. Rudaali (1993): The Woman Who Cried for Others
In Rudaali, Dimple proved she was more than a commercial star. Based on a story by famous writer Mahasweta Devi, the film followed women who were hired to cry at funerals.
Dimple played Shanichari, a woman whose life was filled with pain. Yet she couldn’t cry, even though it was her job. The role was heavy and deep, and she portrayed it with such honesty that critics called it one of her best performances ever. The film spoke about the struggles of women in society and became a classic in Indian art cinema.
4. Antareen (1993): Loneliness on the Big Screen
Directed by Mrinal Sen, Antareen was a quiet film about loneliness and human connection. Dimple played a woman left alone after her lover abandoned her. She starts calling strangers on the phone to ease her pain.
One of those calls connects her with a lonely writer, and their nightly conversations bring some comfort. The film was slow and artistic, with many powerful close-up shots of Dimple that showed her fear and sadness. It’s a lesser-known film but showcases her incredible range as an actress.
5. Dil Chahta Hai (2001): A Graceful Role in a Modern Film
In Dil Chahta Hai, a film that changed how Bollywood showed friendships and relationships, Dimple played Tara — a woman dealing with alcoholism and heartbreak. She was older, elegant, and full of quiet sadness.
Her role was small but unforgettable. She shared a special bond with Akshaye Khanna’s character, and their connection was both touching and complex. Dimple’s graceful performance proved she could still shine in modern stories made for younger audiences.
