This veteran actress, who once faced bullying in the film industry, went on to work with Shah Rukh Khan in a blockbuster that grossed Rs 400 crore, playing the beloved role of his grandmother.
Published: November 14, 2025 3:15 PM IST
There are some actors in Bollywood whose careers span decades, who leave a lasting impact on Indian cinema, and yet their stories often go unnoticed by many younger generations. One such actress was Kamini Kaushal, a legendary figure whose career saw incredible milestones, including working alongside one of the biggest stars in Bollywood, Shah Rukh Khan.
The legacy of Kamini Kaushal
Born in a well-known family, Kamini Kaushal initially had no aspirations to enter the world of films. In fact, she was more inclined towards a career in academics and had a strong passion for literature and theatre. She was involved in community plays and radio dramas, which helped her develop her acting skills.
Her debut role came with the film Neecha Nagar (1946), which made waves in the industry. This film won the prestigious Cannes Film Festival Award, and suddenly, she found herself in the limelight. Her natural acting skills and ability to bring depth to her character were quickly noticed, making her one of the most admired actresses of her time.
When Kamini Kaushal became the grandmother of SRK
Though she had a long and successful career, one of the most memorable roles in her later years came when she was cast as Shah Rukh Khan’s grandmother in Rohit Shetty’s Chennai Express, which broke box office records. The film was a massive hit, grossing over Rs 422 crore globally. Even in her later years, her talent shone brightly, and she managed to bring a sense of gravitas to the role that made it unforgettable.
When Kamini Kaushal shared how she went into acting
Kamini Kaushal revealed that she was “bullied” into cinema because she was initially reluctant to join films. At the time, she was studying at Kinnaird College in Lahore and was actively involved in radio plays and theatre. She didn’t see films as a suitable career for a young woman and turned down filmmaker Chetan Anand’s offer to act in Neecha Nagar.
However, her brother and Chetan Anand persuaded her repeatedly, insisting she take the role. This pressure, which she later described as bullying, led her to finally agree. Despite her initial hesitation, this decision launched her illustrious acting career.
More about Kamini Kaushal
Veteran Bollywood actress Kamini Kaushal has passed away at the age of 98. She died due to age-related health complications, but the exact cause of death hasn’t been officially confirmed. Kamini Kaushal’s family has requested privacy during this time.
Story Highlights
- Kamini Kaushal debuted with Neecha Nagar (1946), which won the Cannes Film Festival Award
- She acted alongside Shah Rukh Khan in Chennai Express (2013)
- Kamini Kaushal was initially reluctant to join films, but was persuaded by her brother and Chetan Anand
- She had a career spanning over seven decades, starring in films like Shaheed, Kabir Singh, and Laal Singh Chaddha
Kamini Kaushal’s legacy is a reminder of her incredible talent and versatility as an actress. From her early days in theatre to her iconic roles in cinema, she left an indelible mark on Indian film industry.
