María Elena Velasco, known as La India María, is a celebrated figure in Mexican cinema. This article delves into the life and career of this comedic icon, exploring her impact on Mexican entertainment and the enduring legacy of her character, India Maria.
From Dancer to Comedic Star
Born in Puebla, Mexico, María Elena Velasco’s journey to stardom began in Mexico City after her family relocated. Starting as a dancer in variety shows, she transitioned to acting, sharing the stage with renowned comedians like Fernando Soto “Mantequilla” and Adalberto Martínez “Resortes.” Her early film roles were minor, but she honed her craft alongside actors like Julián de Meriche, whom she later married.
The Birth of India Maria
The character of India Maria, inspired by indigenous street vendors in Mexico City, catapulted Velasco to fame. Her comedic portrayal of India Maria resonated with audiences at Teatro Blanquita and on television programs like “Domingos espectaculares” and “Siempre en Domingo.” This popularity paved the way for a successful film career.
Box Office Success and Cinematic Adventures
India Maria’s film debut, “Tonta, tonta, pero no tanto” (1972), produced by Fernando de Fuentes hijo, was a box office hit. Velasco’s comedic talent shone as India Maria navigated hilarious situations, from portraying a vendor of healing water in “Pobre, pero honrada!” (1973) to a mischievous nun in “La madrecita” (1974). Subsequent films saw India Maria as a small-town mayor in “La presidenta municipal” (1975) and even the guardian of a pampered Shih Tzu in “El miedo no anda en burro” (1976).
Expanding Horizons and Artistic Freedom
India Maria’s adventures continued with roles involving flying helicopters, being a good luck charm, and impersonating a socialite. Her first US appearance was in “Okey, Mister Pancho” (1981). Velasco’s collaboration with Antonio Matouk in the 1980s granted her more creative control, leading her to direct “El coyote emplumado” (1983) and “Ni Chana, ni Juana” (1985).
Later Works and Enduring Legacy
Velasco’s career extended to stage productions, sitcoms, and screenwriting. Her son, Iván Lipkies, produced her independent film “Ni de aquí, ni de allá” (1988). After a period of being blacklisted, India Maria returned to television with her own sitcom, “¡Ay María qué puntería!” (1998). Velasco co-wrote the screenplay for the political satire “Las delicias del poder” (1999), directed by her son and produced by her daughter.
Her final film, “La hija de Moctezuma” (2014), a fantasy adventure, marked India Maria’s return to the big screen and featured iconic comedian Eduardo Manzano. María Elena Velasco passed away shortly after the premiere, leaving behind a remarkable legacy as a beloved comedic icon in Mexican culture. Her portrayal of India Maria continues to entertain and resonate with audiences, solidifying her place as one of Mexico’s greatest comedic talents.
