Suraiya

Suraiya, also known as Suraiya Jamaal Sheikh, was a renowned Indian singer and actress born on August 15, 1929, in Bombay (now Mumbai), India. She is considered one of the leading playback singers and actresses of the Indian film industry during the 1940s and 1950s, particularly in Hindi cinema.

Suraiya began her career in the entertainment industry at a young age, gaining popularity with her melodious voice and charismatic screen presence. She made her acting debut in the film "Taj Mahal" in 1941 and quickly established herself as a prominent star. Her singing career flourished alongside her acting, and she became known for her versatility across genres, from romantic ballads to patriotic songs.

Throughout her career, Suraiya delivered numerous hit songs and appeared in several successful films, such as "Dard" (1947), "Chotify" (1950), and "Ashiana" (1952). Her collaboration with music directors like Naushad Malik and Shankar-Jaikishan contributed significantly to her musical success.

Despite her fame, Suraiya was known for leading a relatively private life. She retired from the film industry in the early 1960s and withdrew from the public eye. Her contributions to Indian music and cinema earned her critical acclaim and a lasting legacy.

Suraiya passed away on January 15, 2004, at the age of 74. Her impact on Indian cinema and music continues to be celebrated, and she is remembered as one of the most talented and iconic performers of her era.