In a poignant loss for Indian cinema, veteran actress Kamini Kaushal, widely recognized as the country’s oldest living performer, has died at the age of 98. The news, confirmed through reports from sources close to her family, comes amid her ongoing battle with health complications tied to advanced age.
Kaushal’s passing marks the end of an era for Bollywood and Hindi film enthusiasts. A family associate, speaking on condition of anonymity, emphasized the clan’s preference for discretion: “Kamini Kaushal’s family is extremely low profile, and needs privacy.” No formal announcement has yet been issued by her relatives.
Over a career spanning decades, Kaushal graced more than 90 films, cementing her status as an enduring icon. Her screen journey began with the groundbreaking Neecha Nagar in 1946, a debut that earned the Palme d’Or—the highest honor—at the Cannes Film Festival. This triumph set the stage for a string of memorable roles in films such as Shaheed, Nadiya Ke Paar, Shabnam, Arzoo, and Biraj Bahu. Among her other standout contributions are Do Bhai, Ziddi, Paras, Namoona, Jhanjar, Aabroo, Bade Sarkar, Jailor, Night Club, and Godaan.
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Beyond the silver screen, Kaushal extended her influence to television, most notably through the beloved Doordarshan series Chand Sitare, which captured audiences with its heartfelt storytelling.
A fascinating footnote in her legacy involves her early collaboration with Bollywood legend Dharmendra. As his inaugural co-star in Shaheed, Kaushal shared a special bond with the actor. Years later, Dharmendra reflected on their first encounter via a nostalgic social media post, sharing a photograph and captioning it: “Pehli film SHAHEED ki heroine Kamini Kaushal Ke saath pehli mulaqat ki pehli tasvir… Donon ke chihron par massart … ikk pyaar bhari introduction (My first meeting with the heroine of my first film Shaheed, Kamini Kaushal. There is happiness on both our faces, it was an introduction full of love ).….”
Kaushal leaves behind three sons—Shravan, Vidur, and Rahul Sood—who have remained out of the public eye. The entertainment community, including outlets like Zoom, has expressed deep sympathy, offering condolences to her loved ones. Her contributions to Indian arts will continue to inspire generations, ensuring her light endures long after her departure.
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