When one thinks of timeless acting talent in Punjabi cinema, the name Nirmal Rishi instantly comes to mind. For more than five decades, she has graced the stage and the screen with unmatched charisma, humor, grace, and depth.
From her humble beginnings in Punjab to becoming a Padma Shri awardee in 2024, Nirmal Rishi’s journey is nothing short of inspiring.
Early Life & Childhood
Born on 27 August 1943 in Village Khiva Kalan, Bathinda (now Mansa), Punjab, Nirmal grew up in a middle-class Sikh family. Her father, Sh. Baldev Krishan Rishi, was the village sarpanch, and her mother, Smt. Bachni Devi, was a homemaker. Interestingly, she was not named until the age of two, when a Patwari first wrote “Nirmala” in a document, later shortened to Nirmal. Fondly nicknamed Munni, she grew up in a household that believed in discipline but also encouraged her talents.
During her school days in Ganganagar, Rajasthan, Nirmal displayed extraordinary talent. She was not only interested in acting but also excelled in sports, singing, and cultural activities. By the time she was in Class 10, she had collected 18 certificates in co-curricular activities. She also joined the NCC and earned J1 and J2 certificates in shooting. At one point, she even dreamt of joining the Indian Army.
Education & Career Shift
Education was always important to her. She pursued higher studies in physical education and completed her M.Phil. in Physical Education from Government College of Physical Education, Patiala. With this degree, she worked as a lecturer. But destiny had bigger plans.
While teaching in Patiala, she participated in a mono-acting event. This performance caught the attention of renowned theatre artist Harpal Tiwana and his wife Neena Tiwana, who were starting a theatre group named Punjab Kala Manch in 1966.
Nirmal joined the group, and this marked the beginning of her artistic journey.
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Theatre Days – The Strong Foundation
Nirmal Rishi’s first play with the group was Aduhre Sapne. She went on to perform in iconic plays like Kanak Di Bali, Loha Kut, Hind di Chaadar, and And in the Dry Mountains (Punjabi version). She shared the stage with the legendary Om Puri in some productions.
Later, her group shifted to Ludhiana, where they continued staging powerful plays like Diwa Bale Sari Raat, Chandigarh Musibat Da Ghar, Garam Bazaar, and Behrupiya. One of her most memorable works as a writer was Maa Menu Mari Naa, which was originally 10 minutes long but later expanded to a full 2-hour drama due to its popularity.
In the early 1990s, Nirmal and her theatre team toured internationally, performing in London, Canada, and America. These tours gave her exposure and further strengthened Punjabi theatre’s global presence.
Entry into Films
Her theatre success eventually paved the way to Punjabi cinema. In 1983, she made her film debut in Long Da Lishkara as Gulabo Maasi. This role became a milestone in her career and made her a household name.
She continued to shine in Punjabi films like Ucha Dar Babe Nanak Da (1985), Qurbani Jatt Di (1990), Mela (1997), Akhiyaan Udeekdian (2009), Oh My Pyo! (2014) and more. Post-2010, she became a favorite grandmother and witty elder in blockbusters like:
- Angrej (2015)
- Love Punjab (2016)
- Nikka Zaildar (2016)
- Lahoriye (2017)
- Rabb Da Radio (2017)
- Guddiyan Patole (2019)
- Godday Godday Chaa (2023)
Her performance in Nikka Zaildar earned her a Filmfare Award (Punjabi) for Best Supporting Actress in 2017, followed by another Filmfare Award for Nikka Zaildar 2 in 2018.
In 2016, she made a small but memorable appearance in Bollywood’s blockbuster Dangal.
In the beloved Nikka Zaildar series, Nirmal Rishi shines as the sharp-witted and outspoken dadi (grandmother). Her character adds both comic relief and emotional depth, embodying the voice of tradition often clashing with modern choices. In the upcoming installment, she continues with the same fire, delivering crisp dialogues, heartfelt wisdom, and humorous moments that keep audiences connected across generations.
Awards & Recognition
- PTC Lifetime Achievement Award (2017)
- Filmfare Awards (Punjabi) – Best Supporting Actress (2017 & 2018)
- Padma Shri by the Government of India (2024)
These recognitions not only highlight her artistic brilliance but also her contribution to Indian cinema and theatre.
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Personal Life & Challenges
Nirmal Rishi never married. She once revealed that acting was her true love, and she dedicated her entire life to her passion. She faced personal struggles too, including a property dispute with her brother, which she won in the Punjab and Haryana High Court in 2023.
Despite challenges, she remained strong, committed, and deeply connected with her family and fans.
The Human Touch
What makes Nirmal Rishi special is her simplicity. She is loved not just for her witty on-screen presence but also for her humility off-screen. Even after achieving so much, she continues to live close to her roots in Punjab, inspiring generations of actors, especially women who want to enter theatre and cinema.
Her hobbies include writing and staying engaged with cultural life. She remains active on social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, where fans adore her natural and lively presence.
Legacy
From being a promising schoolgirl who dreamt of joining the army to becoming the evergreen queen of Punjabi theatre and cinema, Nirmal Rishi’s story is one of courage, talent, and dedication. She is not just an actress; she is an institution of art. Her journey is a reminder that with passion and perseverance, one can overcome societal restrictions and shine globally.
Even at 80, she continues to be a vital force in Punjabi entertainment, with her performances flooding hearts with joy and laughter.
Nirmal Rishi is not just a star. She is Punjab’s cultural pride.
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