About this stamp
(14 January 1905 – 22 September 1991)
Birthplace: Bombay, Maharashtra, India
Life and Career
Durga Khote was one of the earliest and most influential actresses of Indian cinema, remembered as a pioneering figure who transformed the role of women in films. At a time when female roles were often played by men or women from specific communities, she emerged as one of the first educated, upper-class women to enter Indian cinema, paving the way for generations to come.
She made an indelible mark in both Hindi and Marathi cinema, earning acclaim for her powerful character portrayals and dignified presence on screen.
Awards and Honours
Durga Khote’s outstanding contributions to Indian cinema and performing arts earned her numerous prestigious recognitions, including:
- Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (1958)
- Padma Shri (1968)
- Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress for Bidaai (1974)
- Dada Saheb Phalke Award (1983) – India’s highest honour in cinema
Commemorative Postage Stamp
A commemorative postage stamp was issued to honour Durga Khote, celebrating her as a pioneer of Indian cinema and a distinguished actress of both Hindi and Marathi films.
This stamp forms part of the special philatelic series marking ‘100 Years of Indian Cinema’, acknowledging her trailblazing contributions and lasting cinematic legacy.
