It is said that no one knows where destiny takes a person and this Bollywood story is a living example of it. The life of an innocent girl born in the hills of Tibet took such a turn that she became a shining actress of Hindi cinema – Latika.
Born in Tibet, educated in Darjeeling and became a star in Mumbai – her story seems no less than a film script. What was Latika’s story and how did she get recognition in the Hindi film industry, let us know.
Changed religion, got new identity
Latika’s real name was Hungu Lamu. His father was Australian and mother was of Tibetan origin. In his childhood, he lost his father and after his mother remarried, he was sent to a Scottish missionary orphanage. To get admission there, he had to change his religion and become a Christian. From here his life took a new turn. After a few years, her stepfather was transferred to Mumbai – and it was from here that Latika’s fortunes took a turn.
This is how I got entry into films
Latika’s neighborhood in Mumbai was that of a Kathak dancer. Seeing the dance, his passion for cinema also arose within him. One day she reached Minerva Studio with the same dancer, where she met the great director Sohrab Modi. Modi was so impressed by her innocence and beauty that he gave her a new name – ‘Latika’ and gave her her first role in the 1944 film ‘Parakh’.
After this Latika did not look back. He worked in films like ‘Gopinath’ with Raj Kapoor and ‘Jugnu’ with Dilip Kumar. His simplicity and acting won the hearts of the audience.
Found love, left career
Love came into Latika’s life in the year 1949 when she married famous comedy actor Gop. After this he said goodbye to the film world. Within a few years, the girl who came from that quiet valley of Tibet had made her mark in the glamorous world of Bollywood.
Latika’s story became an inspiration
Latika’s story is not limited to films only. This is an example of struggle, luck and courage. He showed that if there is passion in the mind, then the journey from the snowy valleys of Tibet to the sparkling lights of Mumbai is possible.