Hindi Cinema Legend Kamini Kaushal Dies at 98, Leaving Behind a Seven-Decade Legacy

Veteran actress Kamini Kaushal, a pioneering figure from Bollywood's golden age, has died at the age of 98.

Her illustrious career, which began in the 1940s, profoundly influenced the evolution of Hindi filmmaking and endured for over 70 years.

Kaushal entered the industry in the mid-1940s and swiftly became a leading star. From 1946 to 1963, she starred in a string of critically acclaimed movies, such as Do Bhai (1947), Shaheed (1948), Nadiya Ke Paar (1948), Ziddi (1948), Shabnam (1949), Paras (1949), Namoona (1949), Arzoo (1950), Jhanjar (1953), Aabroo (1956), Bade Sarkar (1957), Jailor (1958), Night Club (1958), and Godaan (1963).

By the mid-1960s, she seamlessly shifted to powerful supporting roles, further cementing her versatility. Her compelling portrayal in Shaheed (1965) earned widespread acclaim for its emotional intensity. She remained active through the 1970s in films like Do Raaste (1969), Anhonee (1973), Prem Nagar (1974), and Maha Chor (1976).

Even in her later years, Kaushal stayed connected to the screen, most recently appearing in the 2022 blockbuster  Laal Singh Chaddha. She marked her 98th birthday on February 25 this year.

Renowned for her graceful restraint and avoidance of public attention, Kaushal led a deeply private life. Confirming the news of her passing, a family source told journalist Vickey Lalwani, “The family is extremely low-profile and requests privacy at this time.”

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