Veteran Bollywood actress Madhumati has passed away at the age of 79. She died on Wednesday morning, with actor Vindu Dara Singh confirming the news.
Her demise has sent a wave of sorrow across the Indian film industry.
Vindu Dara Singh announced the news on social media, paying tribute to her as more than just a teacher.
Singh described Madhumati as a “teacher, guide, and friend” to himself and thousands of students. He specifically mentioned notable pupils like Akshay Kumar and Tabu.
He noted she passed away peacefully after drinking a glass of water in the morning.
Madhumati’s life was deeply intertwined with dance. She was born on May 30, 1944, into a Parsi family in Mumbai, where her father served as a judge.
From a young age, she showed a strong inclination towards dance and acting. She mastered classical Indian dance forms including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Manipuri, and Kathakali.
She not only performed in films but also taught dance for generations. Many of her students achieved prominence in Indian cinema and remember her as their guru.
Madhumati’s career began during the era when Helen was a renowned dancer in Bollywood. They were often compared due to similar looks and dance styles.
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Madhumati once stated in an interview that they were good friends, with Helen being her senior. She added that the comparisons never bothered them.
Both actresses elevated dance in Indian cinema. Helen became known for cabaret, while Madhumati brought grace to both traditional and cinematic dance forms.
Her personal life also garnered attention. She married Manohar Deepak at the age of 19. He was significantly older and had four children from his previous marriage, as his first wife had passed away.
Her mother initially disapproved of the union. However, Madhumati followed her heart and remained dedicated to dance and films after marriage. She continued teaching students until her final days.
