The Indian film industry is in mourning following the passing of veteran actress Kamini Kaushal. The celebrated star of classic Hindi cinema breathed her last on November 13 at her Mumbai residence. She was 98 years old.
Final Farewell from Kabir Singh Co-stars
Heartfelt tributes poured in from across Bollywood, including from her recent co-stars in the blockbuster film Kabir Singh. In the movie, Kaushal played the grandmother to Shahid Kapoor's character.
Shahid Kapoor shared a simple yet poignant message on his Instagram story, writing, "Rest in peace maam."
Kiara Advani posted a black-and-white throwback photograph on her Instagram stories to honor the late actress. Her caption expressed deep respect, stating, "It was an honour to work with you. Your grace, humility and talent inspired generations and left an unforgettable mark on Indian cinema. Rest in peace, Kamini Kaushal Ji."
A Glorious Cinematic Legacy
Kamini Kaushal, born Uma Kashyap on February 24, 1927, in Lahore, was one of the most prominent figures in Indian cinema's golden era. Her career was marked by numerous iconic roles.
She made her cinematic debut in 1946 with "Neecha Nagar," a film that achieved international acclaim by winning the Grand Prix award at the inaugural Cannes Film Festival.
Throughout the 1940s and 1950s, she was counted among the highest-paid actresses of her time. Her impressive filmography includes classics such as:
- Do Bhai (1947)
- Shaheed (1948)
- Ziddi (1948)
- Arzoo (1950)
- Biraj Bahu (1954)
- Jailor (1958)
- Godaan (1963)
Personal Life and Lasting Influence
Beyond her professional achievements, Kamini Kaushal's personal life was also notable. She was married to BS Sood, her late sister's husband, who served as the chief engineer at the Bombay Port Trust.
Together, they had three children. Demonstrating her compassionate nature, Kaushal also became the adoptive mother to her sister's two daughters following their mother's passing.
Her influence extended to her contemporaries as well. In his biography "The Substance and the Shadow," the legendary Dilip Kumar revealed that Kamini Kaushal was the first woman he fell in love with. He praised her intelligence, fluency in English, and her ability to grasp the poignant sensitivities of their scripts.
The passing of Kamini Kaushal marks the end of an era in Indian cinema, but her rich legacy of performances will continue to inspire actors and audiences for generations to come.
