Celebrating Zohra Segal

Today’s Doodle, illustrated by guest artist Parvati Pillai, celebrates iconic Indian actress and dancer Zohra Segal, one of the country’s first female actors to truly achieve recognition on the international stage. Among Segal’s notable early work was a role in the film “Neecha Nagar“ (“Lowly City”), which was released on this day in 1946 at the Cannes Film Festival. Widely considered Indian cinema’s first international critical success, “Neecha Nagar” won the festival's highest honor: the Palme d’Or prize. 

Sahibzadi Zohra Begum Mumtaz-ullah Khan was born on April 27, 1912 in Saharanpur, British India. She attended a prestigious ballet school in Dresden, Germany in her early 20s and later toured internationally with the Indian dance pioneer Uday Shankar. After she returned to India, she transitioned to acting, joining the Indian People’s Theatre Association in 1945.

Segal moved to London, England in 1962 and built an international profile over the following decades with roles in British television classics like “Doctor Who“ and the 1984 miniseries “The Jewel in the Crown.” In the mid-1990s, she returned to India, where she continued acting on the stage and in Bollywood films. In 2002, the year of her 90th birthday, Segal appeared in her memorable role in the film ”Bend it Like Beckham,” and continued to act well into her 90s. 

Over the years, India has recognized Segal’s prolific contributions with some of the nation’s highest awards: the Padma Shri (1998), the Kalidas Samman (2001), and the Padma Vibhushan (2010). 

Guest Artist Q&A with Parvati Pillai

Today’s Doodle was illustrated by guest artist Parvati Pillai. Below, she shares her thoughts behind the making of this Doodle:

Q: Why was this topic meaningful to you personally? 

A: Zohra Segal is admired across generations for her acting and loveable personality. She overcame social and cultural stereotypes with her sheer tenacity and infectious passion from a very young age. She is an inspiration not just for women everywhere, but for anyone who wants to follow their own path! I grew up watching her as the evergreen granny and have been enthralled by her love for acting and dancing, especially in her twilight years. She taught me what it meant to be passionate about my work and to never be afraid of new challenges. 

Q: What were your first thoughts when you were approached about the project?

A: I felt honored and excited. I also felt a bit intimidated as Zohra was talented in so many art forms, and I really hoped to make a Doodle that would be a fitting tribute to this immensely lovable person. It was an excellent excuse to binge my favorite Zohra Segal movies!

Q: Did you draw inspiration from anything in particular for this Doodle?

A: I drew inspiration from her trademark smile, vintage Bollywood posters, and ornate patterns from Indian architecture. I tried to visualise the elegant nostalgia associated with Zohra as well as the limitless affection that fans have for her.

Q: What do you hope people take away from your Doodle?

A: Zohra Segal lived her life to the fullest. In today’s challenging times, it is important to be optimistic and keep smiling!