Veteran actress Kumkum passed away today. The actress, who was 86 years old, acted in more than 100 films and made her name in the Hindi film industry. Her notable films are Mother India, Kohinoor, Ujala, Ek Sapera Ek Lootera, Naya Daur, Raja Aur Runk, Geet, Aankhen, Lalkar amongst others. She was also the leading lady of first Bhojpuri film Ganga Maiya Tohe Piyari Chadhaibo.

Kumkum was discovered by Guru Dutt. Guru Dutt was to picturise the song Kabhi Aar Kabhi Paar Laaga Teere Nazar for his film Aar Paar (1954) on his friend Jagdeep (father of Javed Jaffery, Naved Jaffery), but later decided to picturise this song on a female actor. But at that time, no one agreed to do a small song. Then Guru Dutt finally picturised this song on Kumkum. Later, Kumkum was seen in a small role in Pyaasa (1957). The famous song Yeh Hai Bombay Meri Jaan from C.I.D (1956), sung by Geeta Dutt was picturised on her. She was also paired alongside Shammi Kapoor in a side role in Mem Saheb (1956) and also in lead opposite Shammi Kapoor in Char Dil Char Raahein (1959).

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Kumkum's father was Nabab of Hussainabad and belonged to a highly reputed family. She acted in almost 115 films in her career and became an acclaimed actress of her times.