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Unforgettable Bollywood mothers who defined love, sacrifice, and strength through powerful performances

ETimes.in | Last updated on - Aug 12, 2025, 03:00 IST
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​Unforgettable Bollywood mothers who defined love, sacrifice, and strength through powerful performances

Bollywood has always shown the mother as a symbol of pure love, endless sacrifice, and unshakable strength, and many actresses have played the role of a mother so beautifully that their characters remain in the hearts of audiences even today. Here are some unforgettable Bollywood mothers who made a deep impact with their emotional and strong roles.

2/7

Rakhee Gulzar

Rakhee Gulzar played the role of a mother who never gave up hope, no matter how bad the situation got. In 'Karan Arjun,' she used to believe strongly that her sons would return, and even after their death, also, her famous line “Mere Karan Arjun aayenge” became iconic. She also showed how a mother’s love is full of faith and power; her performance showed emotional pain, belief in destiny, and the strength to fight for justice.

3/7

​Jaya Bachchan

Jaya Bachchan, who played a soft, graceful, and emotionally strong mother in 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham.' Though she had very few dialogues, her expressions said everything. Her scenes with Shah Rukh Khan were full of love and connection. Her role showed how a mother always feels her child’s presence, no matter where he is. She also played a strong wife who tried to keep the family together during emotional storms.

4/7

​Farida Jalal

In 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge,' Farida Jalal played a soft-spoken and supportive mother. She understood her daughter’s feelings and dreams, even when the father was strict, and her gentle talks and emotional support made her a memorable character. She also showed how mothers try to balance tradition and their children’s happiness. Farida Jalal brought a calm and comforting energy to her role, and also, her scenes with Kajol were full of love and understanding.

5/7

​Sridevi

Late Sridevi’s performance in 'Mom' is one of the most powerful roles of her career. She played a stepmother who goes to any length to get justice for her daughter, and after her daughter is attacked, she takes matters into her own hands. Her role showed fierce determination, silent pain, and deep motherly love. Sridevi’s expressions, body language, and emotional intensity were outstanding, and she showed how a mother’s love can turn into powerful strength.

6/7

​Shefali Shah

Shefali Shah has played both serious and realistic mother roles. In 'Darlings,' she played a fearless and sarcastic mother who stands by her daughter in an unhappy marriage. She is funny, but her bravery and courage are more prominent. In 'Dil Dhadakne Do,' she played a mother stuck in a loveless marriage, trying to keep her family happy. She showed the quiet pain of many Indian women who sacrifice their dreams. Shefali Shah brings depth and truth to her characters.

7/7

​Reema Lagoo

Late veteran actress Reema Lagoo played the role of a soft, kind, and understanding mother in many films. In 'Hum Aapke Hain Koun…!', she showed the warmth and love that brings a family together. She was not strict but was always there to guide and support. Her role demonstrated how mothers quietly take care of everything at home by spreading love. Reema Lagoo brought a modern touch to the image of a mother during the 90s.

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Copyright © May 28, 2026, 08.36AM IST Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service