Madhubala, the original love story heroine of desi cinema, was born on the most amorous day of the year, and would be 84 years old today.

Calling her an icon would be an understatement. During her reign, she was crowned as the Indian Marilyn Monroe of her time.

She was the perfect euphoric blend of a glorious sex appeal coupled with elegance. Her stellar career and sparkling personality made her the queen she was, and remains a prominent role model and trailblazer for many girls, including myself.

1. Depend only on yourself and no one else

She’d taught herself how to drive from a very young age and would always retreat to long drives on her own to unwind.

2. You can feel and be sexy in just the way you are

Madhubala would always ooze in confidence both on and off camera. 

4. Learn to be responsible so you can be more productive

She taught herself English, took care of 18 dogs herself and always prioritized her work.

5. Always remain humble throughout your professional career

Madhubala has been known to always be on time, often arriving on set hours before the shoot and traveled ordinarily across the country on local trains.

6. Love the way your body is and never try to hide in a shell because others don’t agree with you

7. Never let a heartbreak rule over the rest of your life

When things didn’t work out with her first love, Dilip Kumar, Madhubala stayed strong and kept going with her head held high. It was a public affair and was ill-fated but Madhubala didn’t let that ruin her.

8. Always be professional.

9. Never restrict yourself to one specific style and don’t shy away from experimentation

We only live once, so step out of your comfort zone.

10. Never let anything stop you from pursuing your dreams

Madhubala had a hole in her heart but that didn’t stop her from becoming possibly the most successful actress of her time.

11. Always smile and never let the world get to you

She always had a smile on her face, even with an ailing health.

12. Be natural

She loved her natural wavy look and projected the importance of flaunting what you got.

13. Be you in every single way

Madhubala always accessorised and never let anyone tell her otherwise.

14. Never let a man define who you are, because you’re as much a person

Happy birthday Madhubala, you inspire us from beyond your grave.