Kamini Kaushal, born on January 24, 1927, in Lahore, is an iconic figure in Indian cinema, known for her versatile acting and enduring charm. Her father, Prof. Shiv Ram Kashyap, Professor of Botany, at the University of Punjab in Lahore, is widely regarded as the Father of Indian Botany. She graduated in English literature from Government College, Lahore.
“We were both shattered. We were very happy with each other. Everyone falls in love… But I had taken on the girls. I wouldn’t be able to show my face to my sister. My husband, a fine human being, understood why it happened.”
Kamini Kaushal on Relationship with Dilip Kumar
She embarked on her acting journey in 1946 with Chetan Anand’s Neecha Nagar, which won the 1946 Palme d’Or (Golden Palm) at the Cannes Film Festival. Neecha Nagar was written by Khwaja Ahmad Abbas and Hayatullah Ansari on Maxim Gorky’s 1902 play “The Lower Depths.”.
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She quickly rose to prominence, becoming a trailblazer for women in the industry. Kaushal’s early roles in films like “Badi Bahen” (1949) Do Bhai (1947), Shaheed (1948), Nadiya Ke Paar (1948), Ziddi (1948), Shabnam (1949), Paras (1949), Namoona (1949), Arzoo (1950) showcased her acting prowess, earning her critical acclaim.
Kamini Kaushal was the first lead heroine for whom Lata Mangeshkar ever sang for and it was for the film Ziddi in 1948. In 1954 she does Biraj Bahu with Bimal Roy which earned her Filmfare Award for Best Actress. Kamini became a producer and signed on then-matinee idol Ashok Kumar in Poonam and Night Club (1958). She did lighthearted roles in Chalis Baba Ek Chor (1954) and also did serious tragedy genre roles in Aas(1953), Ansoo(1953) and Jailor (1958) and Godaan (1963).
The actress seamlessly transitioned between intense dramatic roles and light-hearted characters, displaying a remarkable range. In 1965, she start playing character roles with Shaheed and goes on to play important characters in Waris, Vishwas, Do Raaste, Yakeen, Aadmi Aur Insaan, Uphaar, Qaid, Bhanwar, Tangewala, Purab Aur Paschim, Shor, Roti Kapda Aur Makaan and Heeralaal Pannalaal. She stunned audiences by playing a mercenary vamp with aplomb in the film Anhonee (1973).
Her Last few films are Chennai Express, Kabir Singh and Lal Singh Chaddha.
The Pairing With Dilip Kumar
Kamini Kaushal and Dilip Kumar shared the screen in films like Shaheed (1947), Nadiya Ke Paar, Shabnam (both in 1948), and Arzoo (1950). Their on-screen chemistry was a blend of contrasts, with Dilip’s nuanced approach complementing Kamini’s natural tenor. The sparks of romance ignited between them during the filming of Shaheed.
However, Kamini already being married (she married brother-in-law BS Sood, chief engineer at the Bombay Port Trust, after older sister Usha, died in a car accident leaving behind two daughters). Despite their deep connection, Kamini had responsibilities as a wife and a mother.
In a Filmfare interview, Kamini revealed, “We were both shattered. We were very happy with each other. Everyone falls in love… But I had taken on the girls. I wouldn’t be able to show my face to my sister. My husband, a fine human being, understood why it happened.”
Dilip Kumar, too, expressed the impact of their parting, acknowledging Kamini as his first love. Songs like “Aye dil mujhe aisi jagah” (Arzoo), “Badnaam na ho jaaye mohabbat” (Shaheed), and “Tumhare liye hue badnam” (Shabnam) featuring them continue to be popular, capturing the timeless essence of their on-screen collaboration.
Beyond her contributions to Hindi cinema, Kamini Kaushal ventured into children’s entertainment and made shows for children like Khel Khilone, Chaat Pani, Chand Sitare, Chandamama, and Hari Bhari Phulwari, adding another dimension to her illustrious career. She also writes childrens stories, her Puppet show for Doordarshan was still remembered fondly.
Her dedication to the craft earned her accolades, including the Filmfare Lifetime Achievement Award in 2015.
Kamini Kaushal’s enduring impact on Indian cinema, marked by her graceful presence and compelling performances, continues to resonate with audiences. Her remarkable career spanning decades has left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape, making her an enduring symbol of cinematic excellence.
