Fearless Nadia: The Australian Stuntwoman Who Conquered Bollywood

The iconic presence of Fearless Nadia in 1935’s Hunterwali marked a turning point in the Indian film industry. Born as Mary Ann Evans in Perth, Australia, Nadia became a symbol of courage and empowerment on the big screen, capturing the imagination of audiences in Bombay.

Discovering Nadia’s talent for stunts, Bollywood director JBH Wadia and his brother Homi Wadia took a chance on her, casting her in a lead role in the groundbreaking film Hunterwali. While financiers initially hesitated due to her non-Indian origins, Nadia’s portrayal of an avenging princess clad in a cape and whip proved to be a box-office sensation.

Her signature yell, “Hey-y-y”, from Hunterwali became a popular catchphrase, solidifying her status as a top star of the 1930s and 1940s in the realm of Bollywood. Moreover, her partnership with Homi Wadia off-screen raised eyebrows amidst societal norms of the time.

Known for performing her own stunts, Fearless Nadia pushed the boundaries of action sequences, jumping off planes and riding horses bareback in an era devoid of safety measures. Her dedication to her craft and fearless spirit endeared her to audiences, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in Indian cinema.

Behind the daring on-screen persona, Mary Ann Evans led a modest life off-camera, known for her sense of humor and down-to-earth nature. Even her annual Christmas parties with Homi Wadia became legendary in the film industry, showcasing her playful and sociable character in contrast to her bold on-screen presence.