Bollywood’s Veteran Sehgal Turns 100

Bollywood's grand dame Zohra Sehgal, a star of Indian stage and screen for seven decades, celebrated her 100th birthday on Friday.

Described as the doyenne of Indian theatre, Sehgal started out as a dancer before moving into acting, working primarily on the stage but also making her name in Hindi and English-language films and TV series over the years.

During a stint in Britain after winning a drama scholarship, she appeared in several productions including the 1980s landmark TV series "The Jewel In The Crown".

Fans on Twitter congratulated the star on her milestone, including British Indian writer Salman Rushdie.

"The eminent Indian actress Zohra Sehgal is 100 years young! Congrats to my Zohra Khala [aunt]! Much love from New York," he wrote.

Sehgal's film credits include "Dil Se" (From the heart), "Bend it Like Beckham" and "The Mystic Masseur."

"Known for her feisty spirit and zest for life, Zohra spread smiles with her roles in "Saawariya" (My Love) and "Cheeni Kum" even at the age of 94," said the Press Trust of India.

In the popular Hindi film "Cheeni Kum" (Less sugar) she acted alongside Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan as his mother.

In 2010 she won the Padma Vibhushan, India's second highest civilian award.