Name: Neena Gupta
Date of Birth: June 4, 1959
Place of Birth: Calcutta, West Bengal, India
Education:
- National School of Drama
- University of Delhi (BA, MA, MPhil)
Occupations:
- Actress
- Television Director
Years Active: 1982–present
Spouses:
- Amlan Kusum Ghose (1977–1978)
- Vivek Mehra (2008–present)
Partner: Viv Richards (1980s)
Children: Masaba Gupta
Early Life:
Neena Gupta was born on June 4, 1959, in Calcutta, India, to R. N. Gupta and Shakuntala Devi Gupta. She spent her formative years in the Karol Bagh area of New Delhi, where she attended Bal Bharti School for elementary education and Vidya Bhawan for secondary schooling. Neena pursued higher education at Delhi University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from Janki Devi Memorial College and a Master of Arts in Sanskrit.
Education and Career:
During her university years, Neena Gupta developed a keen interest in theatre and actively participated in dramatic activities. Encouraged by her mentor, Satish Kaushik, she enrolled at the National School of Drama in 1977. Under the guidance of eminent personalities like Ebrahim Alkazi and B.V. Karanth, Neena honed her acting skills and graduated as a top performer in 1980.
Career Highlights:
Neena Gupta's illustrious career spans both cinema and television. She made her acting debut in 1982 and has since delivered memorable performances in various genres. Notable roles include her portrayal of a young widow in "Woh Chokri" (1994), for which she received critical acclaim and a National Film Award. In addition to her film career, Neena Gupta has made significant contributions to television, starring in the drama series "Saans" (1999) and hosting the Indian version of "The Weakest Link." Her versatility and talent have earned her numerous accolades, including two National Film Awards and a Filmfare Award.
Personal Life:
Neena Gupta's personal life has been marked by significant relationships and milestones. She was previously married to Amlan Kusum Ghose, with whom she shares a daughter, Masaba Gupta. In 2008, she married Vivek Mehra. Neena's relationship with cricketer Viv Richards during the 1980s garnered considerable media attention.
Legacy and Recognition:
Neena Gupta's enduring legacy in Indian entertainment is characterized by her exceptional talent and pioneering spirit. Her ability to seamlessly transition between art-house and commercial projects has solidified her status as a trailblazer in the industry. In June 2021, she released her autobiography, "Sach Kahun Toh," providing readers with insights into her remarkable journey.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Neena Gupta's journey from a budding theatre enthusiast to a celebrated actress and television director is a testament to her passion, perseverance, and talent. Her contributions to Indian cinema and television continue to inspire generations of artists and entertainers, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.