Legendary Bollywood actress Kamini Kaushal passed away at the age of 98, leaving behind a remarkable legacy that spanned more than seven decades. Over the course of her long career, she appeared in numerous films and became one of the most influential performers of early Indian cinema. Few people know that Kamini Kaushal was also Dharmendra’s first-ever heroine. She starred opposite him in his debut film, "Shaheed."

Kamini Kaushal held a special place in Dharmendra’s life. They shared a warm bond during his early years in the industry. Not long ago, Dharmendra shared a nostalgic photo from their very first meeting on Instagram. In the heartfelt caption, he wrote, “The first photo of my first meeting with Kamini Kaushal, the heroine of my first film, Shaheed. Smiles on both our faces. A loving meeting.” The picture reflected the affection and admiration between the two actors.

A Star Who Shone Across Generations

In recent months, Kamini Kaushal had been dealing with age-related health issues. Besides her work in films, she also played an important role in shaping early Indian television. Her Doordarshan show, “Chand Sitare,” gained immense popularity, introducing her to a younger audience and making her a household name once again.

Her passing is not only a personal loss for her family but also marks the end of a historic era in Indian cinema. She belonged to the generation of artists who helped build the foundation of Bollywood.

A Historic Debut at Cannes

Born in 1927, Kamini Kaushal was among the earliest female superstars of the industry. She made a sensational debut in 1946 with the film “Neecha Nagar.” The film created history by winning the Palme d’Or (Golden Palm) at the Cannes Film Festival—an achievement no other Indian film has replicated to this day. Her powerful performance set the tone for a long and successful career.

A Filmography of Over 90 Movies

Throughout her illustrious journey, Kamini Kaushal acted in more than 90 films. Some of her most memorable works include “Shaheed,” “Nadiya Ke Paar,” “Shabnam,” and “Arzoo Aur Biraj Bahu.” Whether it was emotional drama or romantic roles, she effortlessly adapted to the evolving landscape of cinema.

Her contribution to Indian films and television remains invaluable. Though she is no longer with us, her artistry, charm, and legacy will continue to live on through her unforgettable work.