Kamini Kaushal, known for being the oldest actress in the Indian film industry, has passed away at the age of 98. With a career spanning over 75 years, Kamini Kaushal was one of the most revered faces in Indian cinema. Her presence on-screen evoked a sense of nostalgia, reminding many of the golden days of Bollywood. Despite her advanced age and health-related challenges, she remained a beloved figure in the industry until her last days.
Kamini Kaushal’s life and career served as an inspiration to many in the industry. She brought life to every role she played and left an indelible mark on the audience. While she had reduced her public appearances in recent years due to health concerns, her legacy remains etched in the history of Indian cinema.
Kamini Kaushal’s Passing and Family Confirmation
On Friday, the news of Kamini Kaushal’s passing was confirmed by a close family friend, Sajan Narayan, to the Press Trust of India (PTI). According to Narayan, Kamini passed away late Thursday night at her home in Mumbai. At the time of her death, she was just months away from turning 99 in February 2026. Although her cause of death has not been officially disclosed, the family has yet to release a public statement.
Her passing marks the end of an era in the Indian film industry. Kamini Kaushal’s remarkable career and her immense contribution to cinema will forever be remembered by fans and colleagues alike.
Kamini Kaushal’s Health and Life after Personal Tragedy
Kamini Kaushal was known for her vibrant health well into her 90s. Remarkably, until the age of 93, she did not rely on any medication, maintaining a healthy lifestyle. However, her life took a devastating turn following the untimely death of her eldest son, Rahul Sood. Rahul, who lived near his mother’s home, had been her primary caregiver and was a constant source of support for her. His death left Kamini deeply affected, and it marked the beginning of her physical and emotional decline.
Rahul passed away in 2021 after contracting COVID-19. His death occurred just before Kamini Kaushal’s 94th birthday, and it left her heartbroken. After Rahul’s passing, Kamini was overwhelmed with grief and began to suffer from age-related ailments. Despite her physical challenges, the memory of her son continued to haunt her.
In the wake of Rahul’s death, her younger son, Vidur, moved back to Mumbai from London to care for his mother. Kamini, despite being surrounded by family, never fully recovered from the emotional toll of her son’s passing.
Kamini Kaushal’s Iconic Film Career
Kamini Kaushal’s career began in 1946 with the film Neecha Nagar. The film was a milestone in Indian cinema, as it was the first Indian film to win the Best Film award at the Cannes Film Festival. This early success paved the way for Kamini’s illustrious career in the industry. Over the years, she became one of the leading actresses of her time, starring in numerous successful films.
Her career spanned several decades, and she appeared in a variety of roles, showcasing her versatility. Some of her most notable films include Do Bhai (1947), Shaheed (1948), Nadiya Ke Paar (1948), Ziddi (1948), Shabnam (1949), Paras (1949), Namuna (1949), Aarzu (1950), Jhanjar (1953), Aabroo (1956), Bade Sarkar (1957), Jailor (1958), Night Club (1958), and Godan (1963).
Throughout her career, Kamini Kaushal was praised for her strong performances and her ability to bring depth to her characters. Whether it was her portrayal of strong, independent women or her roles in social dramas, she was always able to connect with her audience.
Kamini Kaushal’s Contribution to Indian Cinema
Kamini Kaushal’s impact on Indian cinema is immeasurable. She was a part of the era when Hindi cinema was transitioning from black and white films to the colorful, vibrant world that we recognize today. Her performances in the 1940s and 1950s played a significant role in shaping the course of Indian film history. As one of the prominent actresses of her time, she helped lay the foundation for future generations of actors and actresses in Bollywood.
Her work in films like Godan, which dealt with social issues, showcased her ability to portray complex characters with grace and empathy. Kamini Kaushal was not just a symbol of beauty and talent, but she also represented the strength and resilience of women in cinema.
Her Later Years and Legacy in Indian Cinema
As time passed, Kamini Kaushal’s appearances in films became less frequent, and she spent most of her later years in Mumbai, surrounded by her family. Despite her absence from the limelight, her legacy continued to inspire countless actors and filmmakers. In her final years, she made her last appearance in Aamir Khan’s Laal Singh Chaddha, a film that reflected her timeless appeal and connection with contemporary cinema.
Even though her health declined in recent years, her contributions to the film industry remain invaluable. Kamini Kaushal’s films continue to be celebrated by cinephiles, and her legacy is cemented as one of the greatest actresses in the history of Indian cinema.
Kamini Kaushal’s death marks the end of an era in Bollywood. She was one of the last few living actresses from the golden age of Indian cinema. With a career that spanned over 75 years, she leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire filmmakers and actors alike. Kamini Kaushal’s contribution to Indian cinema is undeniable, and her name will forever remain etched in the history of Indian film.
Her passing, though deeply mourned, serves as a reminder of the timeless impact she made in shaping the world of cinema. Kamini Kaushal will always be remembered not only for her exceptional acting talent but also for her resilience and grace that she carried throughout her life.
