Waheeda Rehman Donates Personal Memorabilia To Film Heritage Foundation

Veteran actor Waheeda Rehman, recipient of the prestigious Dadasaheb Phalke Award, India’s highest film honour, made a significant contribution to preserving the country's cinematic heritage. The 86-year-old icon, often hailed as the grande dame of Indian cinema, has generously donated her personal memorabilia to the Film Heritage Foundation (FHF) for archival preservation. Rehman's illustrious career has spanned over six decades, during which she collaborated with legendary filmmakers and starred in numerous classic films that have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.

Among the cherished items donated by Waheeda Rehman are the saree she wore to the premiere of the iconic film C.I.D. in 1956, along with her photo albums, photographs, and lobby cards from several acclaimed movies, including Kaagaz Ke Phool, Chaudvin Ka Chand, Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam, Bees Saal Baad, and Baat Ek Raat Ki. This generous gesture was made possible with the support of Rehman's children, Sohail Rekhi and Kashvi Rekhi, who facilitated the donation process.

Waheeda Rehman Donates Personal Film Memorabilia to Film Heritage Foundation

Expressing her motivation behind the donation, Waheeda Rehman emphasised the importance of preserving these invaluable memories for future generations and film enthusiasts. She said, "I’m giving all this to Film Heritage Foundation, because these are very important memories that need to be preserved. People who are interested in learning about films and the history of Indian cinema can look back at this valuable memorabilia that is preserved at the FHF archive. I hope you all do it and will enjoy seeing all these albums."

Shivendra Singh Dungarpur, the director of the Film Heritage Foundation, recounted the emotional moment when Waheeda Rehman entrusted her personal memorabilia to the organisation for safekeeping. As they perused through her photo albums, filled with captivating black-and-white images from her iconic films, Dungarpur was struck by Rehman's enduring grace and dignity, as well as the incredible legacy she has built throughout her illustrious career. He expressed profound gratitude for Rehman's decision to entrust FHF with preserving her cherished memories, underscoring the importance of honouring her remarkable contribution to Indian cinema.

What an honour Waheeda Rehman donates all her personal memorabilia which she had preserved with care for over 60 years including the Sari from C.I.D to Film Heritage Foundation a true endorsement of our work in saving India’s cinematic Heritage..@FHF_Official pic.twitter.com/Ii2IMpZEdk

— Shivendra Singh Dungarpur (@shividungarpur) March 13, 2024

The donation of Waheeda Rehman's personal memorabilia to the Film Heritage Foundation represents a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to safeguard and celebrate the rich cinematic heritage of India.