Few actresses have portrayed the depth, dignity, and strength of motherhood as gracefully as Rakhee Gulzar. With her expressive eyes and understated power, she has brought to life some of the most unforgettable mothers in Indian cinema. Here are five films where she truly shone in maternal roles:
1. Karan Arjun (1995)
As Durga, Rakhee gave us a mother who defied time, logic, and fate, waiting for her sons to return from the dead. Her iconic dialogue, “Mere Karan Arjun aayenge,” still echoes in pop culture as a symbol of undying faith and maternal love.
2. Baazigar (1993)
In a relatively restrained but emotionally strong role, Rakhee played the mother of Seema (Shilpa Shetty), a grieving woman who fights for justice after her daughter’s mysterious death. Her quiet resolve and dignity along with impactful performances from SRK gave weight to the thriller’s emotional arc.
3. Aamar Boss (2025)
Marking her return to the silver screen after 22 years, Rakhee’s portrayal of a sharp, layered mother in Aamar Boss starring Shiboprosad Mukerjee and directed by Nandita Roy-Shiboprosad, is both poignant and powerful. The film explores the evolving bond between a mother and her grown son, and Rakhee brings a moving mix of warmth, humour, and heartbreak to the role proving why she’s a timeless icon.
4. Ram Lakhan (1989)
Rakhee as Sharda is the epitome of sacrifice and strength. After her husband is killed, she raises her sons to seek justice. Her portrayal of a mother dealing with loss, revenge, and resilience added emotional heft to this classic masala entertainer.
5. Anari (1975)
In Anari, along side Venkatesh Daggubati and Karisma Kapoor, Rakhee played a nurturing and loving mother figure whose compassion and poise uplifted the entire narrative. Her calm presence and emotional clarity made her character deeply endearing, even in a film led by younger protagonists.
From divine faith to fierce justice, quiet resilience to everyday warmth, Rakhee Gulzar’s portrayals of mothers have been as diverse as they’ve been unforgettable. With Aamar Boss, she reminds us yet again that legends don’t just return, they redefine the screen every time they do.
