Cinema Legend Kamini Kaushal Passes Away at 98

Veteran Bollywood icon Kamini Kaushal, one of Indian cinema’s most influential and enduring performers, passed away on Thursday night at the age of 98. The news was confirmed by Sajan Narain, a close associate of the family, who revealed that the legendary actor died at her Mumbai residence. She would have turned 99 in February. The cause of her death has not yet been disclosed, and the family is expected to release an official statement soon.

Kaushal’s demise marks the end of a celebrated chapter in Hindi cinema. With a prolific career spanning more than seven decades, she earned immense respect for her versatility, grace, and pioneering contributions to Indian films. Her journey began with Chetan Anand’s ‘Neecha Nagar’ (1946), a landmark film that won the prestigious Palme d’Or (Golden Palm) at the Cannes Film Festival. The success of the film placed her at the forefront of Indian cinema, making her one of the highest-paid actresses of the late 1940s.

She soon became a sought-after name, starring in memorable classics such as Aag, Shaheed, Ziddi, and Nadiya Ke Paar. Over the years, she worked with some of Bollywood’s biggest legends, including Dilip Kumar, Dev Anand, and Raaj Kumar, carving out a reputation as a performer with rare emotive depth and enduring screen presence. Her filmography expanded to include major titles like Do Raaste, Heer Raanjha, Beti, Waaris, Laaga Chunari Mein Daag, Chennai Express, and Kabir Singh. Her final on-screen appearance was a cameo in Aamir Khan’s Laal Singh Chadha.

Following news of her death, several Bollywood actors who admired and worked with her shared emotional tributes. Kiara Advani, who starred alongside Kaushal in Kabir Singh, posted a heartfelt message on Instagram. Sharing her picture, Kiara wrote, “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.”

Shahid Kapoor, who also featured with her in Kabir Singh, remembered her with a simple yet touching note: “Rest in light ma’am.” His tribute reflected the deep regard he held for the veteran actor, who played his character Kabir’s grandmother in the film.

Kareena Kapoor Khan also honoured Kaushal’s memory by sharing a picture of the late star on Instagram, accompanied by a heart, rainbow, and folded-hands emoji, symbolising respect and love.

As tributes poured in from fans and the industry, many expressed gratitude for Kaushal’s extraordinary contributions to cinema and her ability to remain relevant across generations. Her longstanding presence in films—from black-and-white classics to contemporary blockbusters—embodied her adaptability, artistry, and timeless charm.

Kamini Kaushal is survived by her sons Shravan, Vidur, and Rahul Sood. Her passing leaves behind a legacy that spans Indian cinema’s most significant eras, influencing countless performers and continuing to inspire cinephiles across the world.