Reena Roy was a renowned leading lady of Hindi films, with a career spanning from 1972 to 1985. Born into a broken home, with a Muslim father and Hindu mother who separated after having four children together, Reena was their third child and began her film career in her early teens.
Her initial film, B.R. Ishara's "Nayi Duniya Naye Log" (1973),alongside newcomer Danny Denzongpa, was temporarily shelved, but she soon found success in "Zaroorat" (1972) with Vijay Arora, which became a hit. Reena earned the nickname "Zaroorat Girl" and waited for her next break, which came with Jaise Ko Taisa (1973),featuring a memorable rain-soaked dance with Jeetendra.
Throughout the 1970s, Reena worked in several films, including Jangal Mein Mangal, Rani Aur Lalpari, Madhosh, Goonj, and Umar Qaid, although many did not leave a lasting impact. However, her performances in Zakhmee (1975) and Kalicharan (1976) gained her recognition among directors and audiences.
Initially, there were low expectations for Kalicharan, as Subhash Ghai was making his directorial debut and Shatrugan Sinha was transitioning from villainous roles to leading man. Yet, the film surprised everyone and became a massive hit, with Reena receiving attention for her role alongside Shatrugan Sinha. They went on to sign several films together, as well as pair with Sunil Dutt, who was also popular with audiences.
The success of Zakhmee and Kalicharan led to her star vehicle Nagin (1976),in which she played the title role of the deadly 'Nagin', avenging the death of her lover by ruthlessly murdering five leading male-stars. The film became a huge hit, earning Reena her first Filmfare nomination for Best Actress. By then, she was one of the top heroines in Hindi films.
Raj Kumar Kohli collaborated with Reena, producing some of the greatest multi-starer blockbusters, including Nagin, Jaani Dushman (1979),Muqabla (1979),and Raaj Tilak (1984).
