As Waheeda Rehman conferred with Dadasaheb Phalke Award, know her Odisha links

The legendary Waheeda Rehman, set to receive the Dadasaheb Phalke Lifetime Achievement Award, has a unique connection with Odisha. Seven decades ago, she embarked on her journey as a dancer with her first stage show at Ganjam Kala Parishad in Berhampur. This marked the inception of her illustrious career and an all-India-level football tournament in Berhampur.

Dr. Ferose Ali, a renowned physician and social activist in Berhampur, organized Waheeda's maiden show. The event not only garnered acclaim for the budding artist but also contributed to the birth of the 'All India Fieaz Memorial Tournament' for football, financed by the proceeds from the show. Dr. Ferose, known as the "poor man’s doctor," utilized the funds to support sporting activities in Ganjam district, leaving a lasting impact.

Waheeda's Bharatanatyam performance during the 1952 show caught the attention of a Telugu film director, leading to her debut in the film "Rojulu Maraayi" (1955). Waheeda's dance sequence in the movie became an instant hit, propelling her into the limelight. 

Later, Guru Dutt, enchanted by her beauty during the 100-day celebration of her debut movie, offered her a lead role in "CID" (1956), opposite Dev Anand, marking a pivotal moment in her cinematic journey.

Dr. Ferose's granddaughter, Nargis Natrajan, captured these remarkable events in her biography, "Daddy-A Bouquet of Memories."

The collections from Waheeda's shows were not just a stepping stone for her career but also contributed to charitable endeavours. 

In 1960, another charity show was organized by Dr. Ferose in Berhampur featuring Waheeda and playback singer Manna Dey to fund the construction of a Red Cross Hospital.