Seema Biswas, a celebrated Indian actress, has graced both film and theatre with her exceptional talent. Known for her powerful portrayals, she remains a prominent figure in the Indian entertainment industry.

Wiki/Biography

Seema Biswas was born on Thursday, 14 January 1965 (age 57 years; as in 2022) in Guwahati, Assam. Her family later moved to Nalbari, Assam. A Capricorn, she completed her schooling at Dhamdhama School, Assam, and earned an honors degree in Political Science from Nalbari College. Her acting journey began with a course at the prestigious National School of Drama (NSD) in Delhi.

Physical Appearance

• Height (approx.): 5’2″
• Eye Colour: Black
• Hair Colour: Black

Family & Caste

Seema Biswas hails from a Bengali family. Her father, Jagdish Biswas, was in the construction business and passionate about cultural activities. Her mother, Meera Biswas, a history teacher, was a pioneering female theatre artist in Assam. She has two sisters (both singers) and a brother.

Husband & Children

Seema Biswas married twice. Her first marriage was to an NSD alumnus. She later married film producer Nikhilesh Sharma on 27 November 2003. They separated on 5 December 2006, ultimately divorcing in 2007.

Career

Theatre & Films

Seema’s stage debut at 15, after her mother agreed to let her participate in a local theatre production, marked the beginning of a remarkable career. Her NSD training led to numerous stage performances, earning her comparisons to the legendary Smita Patil. She spent seven years with the NSD Repertory Company.

Her breakthrough role came when Shekhar Kapur, after being impressed by her performance in “Khubsurat Bahu,” cast her as Phoolan Devi in “Bandit Queen” (1994). Prior to this, she had appeared in “Amshini” (1987). Her Assamese film debut was “Kothanodi” (2016).

Her extensive filmography spans Bollywood, Bengali, Malayalam, Marathi, Tamil, Konkani, and Bhojpuri cinema. Some notable Bollywood films include “Khamoshi: The Musical,” “Company,” “Deewangee,” “Bhoot,” “Water,” “Vivah,” and “Half Girlfriend.” She also had a successful career in regional cinema with roles in various acclaimed movies across different languages.

Television and Web Series

Seema Biswas ventured into television with “Maha Kumbh: Ek Rahasaya, Ek Kahani” (2014-15). Subsequent roles included appearances in “Leila” (2019), “Dadi Amma… Dadi Amma Maan Jaao!” (2020), and her web series debut in “Code M” (2020).

Awards & Honours

Seema Biswas’s talent has been widely recognized through numerous accolades:

• National Film Award for Best Actress (“Bandit Queen”, 1995)
• Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut (“Bandit Queen”, 1997)
• Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (Hindi Theatre – Acting, 2000)
• Genie Award/Canadian Screen Award for Best Actress (“Water”, 2006)
• Canadian Screen Award for Best Supporting Actress (“Midnight’s Children”, 2013)

Facts/Trivia

Seema Biswas’s early life was marked by a close-knit family life shared in a modest rented house. As a child, she was shy and introverted, with strong preferences for her clothing and food. Her father was a great source of support and encouragement. Her mother also acted with her in “Water” (2005), playing the role of Dhanu.

She faced numerous challenges throughout her career, including initial doubts from a college teacher, financial struggles in Delhi, and controversies surrounding “Bandit Queen.” Despite these setbacks, her determination and perseverance have led to a remarkable journey.

She overcame a significant hurdle in her diction while at NSD, through dedication and the support of a classmate. Her remarkable acting prowess and dedication to her craft continue to inspire audiences and fellow artists.