Industry Mourns the Loss of Veteran Model and Bollywood Figure
- Zarine Katrak, renowned model-actress and mother to Sussanne Khan and Zayed Khan, passed away at age 81
- The veteran star had been facing age-related ailments and breathed her last at her Mumbai residence
- She leaves behind a legacy in Indian cinema, fashion, and her cherished family
In a sad development for the Indian film community, Zarine Katrak, the esteemed former model, actress, and mother of celebrities Sussanne Khan and Zayed Khan, has passed away at the age of 81. She breathed her last at her Mumbai residence, having faced age-related health challenges in recent times.
The news has brought forth an outpouring of grief from family, friends, and admirers who remember Zarine not just as a celebrity mother, but as a talented professional and graceful presence in her own right.
A Glimpse Into Zarine Katrak’s Life and Career
Early Success in Modeling and Films
Zarine Katrak carved her own space in the Indian entertainment and fashion industries during the 1960s and 1970s, establishing herself as a prominent figure long before her children found fame.
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Table: Zarine Katrak’s Professional Journey
| Aspect | Contributions |
|---|---|
| Primary Fields | Modeling, Acting, Interior Design |
| Notable Film | Tere Ghar Ke Samne (1963) alongside Dev Anand |
| Industry Impact | Among early faces who shaped India’s fashion and advertising industry |
| Personal Legacy | Mother of Sussanne Khan, Zayed Khan, Farah Khan Ali, and Simone Arora |
Known for her striking beauty and poise, Zarine was among the early faces who helped shape India’s fashion and advertising industry. Her elegance and artistic sensibilities made her a natural fit for the world of glamour, where she created a substantial impact before gradually stepping away from the spotlight.
Her filmography includes notable roles in Hindi cinema, most memorably in the 1963 classic “Tere Ghar Ke Samne” where she shared the screen with legendary actor Dev Anand.
Personal Life and Family Legacy
Zarine married actor-director Sanjay Khan in the late 1960s, forming one of Bollywood’s most glamorous couples of that era. Despite the glitz surrounding their lives, Zarine chose to focus on her family and home, maintaining grace amid both personal and professional challenges.
The couple raised four children – Sussanne Khan (renowned interior designer and former wife of Hrithik Roshan), Zayed Khan (Bollywood actor), Farah Khan Ali (celebrity jewelry designer), and Simone Arora.
Remembering Zarine Katrak’s Multifaceted Legacy
Beyond the Spotlight: The Family’s Pillar
While the world knew her as a glamorous star and celebrity mother, those close to her remember Zarine as the pillar of her family. Her daughter Sussanne once shared a heartfelt tribute on Instagram, describing her mother as “the epitome of grace and strength” and expressing gratitude for her influence in their lives.
In her caption, Sussanne wrote: “Strong women don’t play victim, They don’t make themselves look pitiful, They may have a storm in their hearts, Yet their smile will be filled with love and forgiveness… my Mummsy you are the epitome of grace and strength so grateful for You”.
Culinary Traditions and Family Bonds
Zarine’s influence extended into the culinary realm as well. In 2015, she authored “Family Secrets: The Khan Family Cookbook,” a collection of cherished family recipes that highlighted her passion for food and family traditions.
In an interview with The Hindu, she spoke fondly about dedicating the book to her mother-in-law, Bibi Fatima Begum, who initially inspired her love for cooking: “She always had a wide smile for me, and she befriended me and got me interested in the taste of real cooking”.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Zarine Katrak?
Zarine Katrak was a veteran Indian model, actress, and interior designer, best known for her work in the 1960s and 70s, and as the mother of Sussanne Khan and Zayed Khan.
What were Zarine Katrak’s notable contributions to Bollywood?
She appeared in several Hindi films, most notably “Tere Ghar Ke Samne” (1963) alongside Dev Anand, and was an influential figure in India’s early modeling and advertising industries.
Who survives Zarine Katrak?
She is survived by her husband, actor-director Sanjay Khan, and their four children: Sussanne Khan, Zayed Khan, Farah Khan Ali, and Simone Arora.
What was Zarine Katrak’s cause of death?
She passed away due to age-related ailments at her residence in Mumbai.
A Lasting Legacy of Grace and Strength
Zarine Katrak’s passing marks the end of an era for Bollywood’s legacy families. She witnessed and contributed to the evolution of Indian cinema and fashion across six decades, while maintaining the privacy and dignity of her family life.
Her journey from model and actress to matriarch of one of Bollywood’s most prominent families reflects a woman who balanced professional success with personal values. As the industry mourns her loss, Zarine Katrak will be remembered not just as a celebrity mother, but as a accomplished woman who carved her own path with elegance and resilience.
Our thoughts are with the Khan family during this difficult time. Readers may share their condolences and memories in the comments section below.
