Mumbai: Veteran actress and former beauty queen Nafisa Ali has celebrated the 50th anniversary of winning the Miss India 1976 title, looking back at a milestone that launched her journey onto the international stage.

Sharing a series of vintage photographs from her pageant days on social media, Nafisa reflected on representing India at the Miss International 1976 competition held in Tokyo, where she finished as the second runner-up.

A Golden Milestone

Marking the special occasion, Nafisa wrote:

“50 years ago I was crowned Miss India 1976 and went on to be second runner-up at Miss International 1976 held in Tokyo.”

The nostalgic post featured sepia-toned images from her pageant journey, drawing appreciation from fans and well-wishers.

From Beauty Queen to Acclaimed Actress

After winning the Miss India crown, Nafisa Ali made her acting debut in 1979 with Shyam Benegal’s Junoon, alongside Shashi Kapoor.

She later appeared in several acclaimed films, including Major Saab, Bewafaa, Life in a… Metro, Guzaarish, Yamla Pagla Deewana, Big B, and Uunchai, which was released in 2022.

Apart from acting, she also entered politics and contested the 2004 Lok Sabha elections from South Kolkata.

Inspiring Journey After Cancer

Diagnosed with stage 3 peritoneal and ovarian cancer in 2018, Nafisa Ali has openly shared her battle with the disease, inspiring many with her resilience.

Last month, she posted pictures and videos from a trek near Rohtang Pass at an altitude of 11,000 feet, describing the experience as one that made her feel “brand new” after surgery and multiple chemotherapy sessions.

Her latest post celebrating five decades since her Miss India victory has once again highlighted her remarkable journey—from beauty queen to actress, cancer survivor, and public figure.