Veteran actor Kamini Kaushal, whose career spanned more than seven decades and several eras of Hindi cinema, passed away on Friday at the age of 98. Her family confirmed the news, sending shockwaves through the film fraternity as tributes poured in from artists, colleagues and cinephiles. The resurfacing of an old photograph shared by Dharmendra has added an emotional layer to the collective remembrance, highlighting the deep bond the two shared.
A bond remembered: Dharmendra’s emotional tribute
Kamini Kaushal holds a special place in Dharmendra’s journey, as she was the first co-star he ever worked with. The two collaborated on the 1965 patriotic film Shaheed, where Dharmendra portrayed freedom fighter Bhagat Singh.
An old image that Dharmendra had posted earlier—now going viral again—captures the moment of their first meeting. In it, a young Dharmendra stands shyly yet cheerfully beside Kamini, while both smile warmly for the camera.
Recalling that day, Dharmendra had written:
“Pehli film SHAHEED ki heroine Kamini Kaushal ke saath pehli mulaqat ki pehli tasveer… Donon ke chehron par muskurahat… ek pyaar bhari introduction.”
Fans have been circulating the photo across social media, calling it a symbol of grace, humility and cinematic legacy.
A stellar career rooted in history
Kamini Kaushal, born Uma Sood, made her debut with Chetan Anand’s pathbreaking 1946 film Neecha Nagar, the first Indian film to win the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. She went on to become one of the biggest female stars of the 1950s, acting in films such as Do Bhai, Ziddi, Arzoo and Biraj Bahu.
Her performances were known for emotional depth, natural expression and a dignified screen presence—qualities that earned her respect across generations of actors.
Kaushal continued to work well into her later years, appearing in supporting roles in films such as Chalti Ka Naam Gaadi, Shor, Yaadon Ki Baaraat and Shankar Dada. Remarkably, she remained active even in her 90s, with Laal Singh Chaddha (2022) becoming the final film of her illustrious journey.
A life shaped by discipline and resilience
In a 2017 conversation with SCREEN, Kaushal recalled her unlikely entry into cinema. After completing her English Honours from Lahore’s Kinnaird College for Women, she initially resisted film offers, having heard discouraging stories about the industry.
“I had heard that films were not a good place for girls. My first reaction was ‘no’,” she had said.
But destiny had other plans. Encouraged by her family, she eventually entered cinema, where she carved out a space defined by dignity, professionalism and an unwavering commitment to her craft.
Family confirms passing, industry pays respects
A source close to the family shared that Kaushal passed away at the age of 98, leaving behind an unmatched legacy. Her death has been met with grief across social media, with fans, critics and public figures recalling her iconic roles and graceful presence.
Dharmendra’s old photograph, now widely shared, stands as a powerful reminder of the warmth she carried with her—and the influence she had on those fortunate enough to work with her.
A timeless legacy
Kamini Kaushal’s passing marks the end of an era in Indian cinema. From pre-Partition India to modern Bollywood, she remained an enduring figure whose contributions shaped the language of storytelling on screen.
As audiences rediscover her performances and celebrate her life, the resurfaced memory with Dharmendra immortalises her radiant charm and the respect she commanded across generations.