Leela Naidu

Leela Naidu was a famous Indian actress who acted in few Hindi and English films, including Yeh Raaste Hain Pyaar Ke (1963), based on the famous real-life Nanavati case, and The Householder, Merchant Ivory Productions' first film. She became Femina Miss India in 1954 and was featured in the Vogue magazine along with Maharani Gayatri Devi in the list of 'World's Ten Most Beautiful Women' and is remembered for her classical beauty and unique acting style.

Her father was Dr. Pattipati Ramiah Naidu from Andhra Pradesh.He was Scientific Advisor to UNESCO for Southeast Asia. Her mother was Dr. Marthe Naidu. She was of Swiss-French origin. Leela Naidu when 17 got married with Tilak Raj Oberoi, son of Mohan Singh Oberoi, the founder of the luxury Oberoi Hotels chain. Her husband was 33 years old at the time.

Soon they had twin daughters, Maya and Priya. The couple soon went through divorce. Her husband won custody of the girls. On the other hand Leela met philosopher Jiddu Krishnamurti while in London, and was deeply attracted to his teachings. She got married again with poet Dom Moraes.

Leela Naidu died in Mumbai on 28 July 2009 due to lung failure. The actress had made her film debut in Anuradha (1960), directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee. Though this movie was not very successful at the box office but it won Leela a great appreciation. Her next movie was Ummeed (1962), alongside Ashok Kumar and Joy Mukherjee. Her other movies include Yeh Raaste Hain Pyar Ke (1963), directed by R. K. Nayyar. It’s song "Ye Khaamoshiyaan, Ye Tanahaaiyaan," became quite popular. n 1963 Leela also acted in the movie The Householder, directed by James Ivory. Her last film was Baghi (1964). She will always be remembered as a great actress.