📌 Key Points
- Navnindra Behl, aged 76, passed away on March 16, leaving behind a rich legacy in Indian cinema and television.
- Her son, filmmaker Kanu Behl, shared a touching tribute on social media, prompting condolences from industry members.
- She was renowned for roles in ‘Ishqbaaz’ and ‘Queen,’ showcasing her versatility as an actress.
- Navnindra also dedicated 25 years to teaching acting and direction, shaping future talents in the field.
Veteran actress Navnindra Behl, celebrated for her roles in ‘Queen’ and ‘Ishqbaaz,’ has died at 76. Her son, filmmaker Kanu Behl, confirmed the news and shared a moving tribute, prompting an outpouring of condolences from the film industry and fans alike.
A Career Spanning Theatre, TV, and Film
Veteran actor Navnindra Behl, known for her memorable performances in films and television shows like Queen and Ishqbaaz, passed away at the age of 76 on March 16. Over the years, she built a respected career across theatre, television, and cinema. Her son, filmmaker Kanu Behl , confirmed the news and shared a heartfelt tribute to his mother on social media.
Several members of the film industry responded to the post and expressed their condolences. Filmmaker Guneet Monga and director Anurag Kashyap sent their love and support to Kanu during this difficult time. Fans and colleagues also mourned the loss of the veteran actor.
Tributes Pour in for the Veteran Actress
Born with a passion for the performing arts, Navnindra began acting at the young age of three and was involved in amateur theatre during her early years. After completing her graduation, she pursued academics and became a lecturer in the Drama department at Punjab University, Patiala. During her time as a lecturer, she trained and mentored several aspiring actors who later went on to work in theatre, television, and films. She also served as the Director of the Audio-Visual Research Centre funded by the University Grants Commission for three years and reportedly had around 25 years of experience teaching production, direction, and acting for television.
Apart from her academic contributions, she continued to act in films and on television. She worked with acclaimed filmmakers such as Gulzar in Maachis, Dibakar Banerjee in Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!, and Vishal Bhardwaj in Gubbare. She also appeared in international projects like The Pride and The Guru.
Navnindra Behl’s Legacy
For many television viewers, she remained best known for playing Kalyani Singh Oberoi, the matriarch of the Oberoi family in the popular show Ishqbaaz, which starred Nakuul Mehta and Surbhi Chandna. She also appeared in films like Queen, where she played Kangana Ranaut’s grandmother, and Khufiya.
The veteran actor is survived by his son Kanu Behl, who is a director, best known for his films Agra and Despatch. The filmmaker’s 2023 film, Agra, won the Best Indie Film award at Indian Film Festival of Melbourne and received critical acclaim from the critics.
Navnindra Behl’s passing marks the end of an era for Indian television and cinema. Her contributions as an actress and educator will be remembered by many. She leaves behind a void in the entertainment industry.
