Veteran Artist Madhumati Passes Away at 84: Tributes from Akshay Kumar and More

Born Hutoxi Reporter, she adopted the name Madhumati after the success of Dilip Kumar’s film “Madhumati”. She gained fame during the 1950s and 60s for her captivating dance performances, mastering both Kathak and contemporary Western styles.

Madhumati served as a dance mentor to many stars in Bollywood, including Akshay Kumar, Chunky Pandey, Tabu, and Sonam Kapoor.

Chaitanya Padukone, a journalist and close friend, confirmed that Madhumati died on Wednesday morning. He shared that she requested her caretaker to wake her after a few hours, but sadly, she had already passed away.

“She had no significant ailments, but age was taking its toll. Her husband had died many years ago, and she lived alone with her caretaker,” Padukone stated.

Respected throughout the Hindi film industry, Madhumati collaborated with legendary figures such as Raj Kapoor and Sunil Dutt. She actively engaged in charitable work, performing free shows for soldiers through Sunil Dutt’s Ajanta Arts Cultural Troupe.

Madhumati also ran a dance academy called ‘MAA’, where she trained budding dancers.

In an emotional tribute on Instagram, Akshay Kumar expressed: “Everything I know about dance, I learnt at your feet, Madhumati ji. Your memory will always be with me. Om Shanti,” accompanied by nostalgic images of their time together.

Actor Vindu Dara Singh shared his condolences, calling her a “teacher and guide” whose life was filled with love and blessings from her students.

Chunky Pandey shared that he felt “heartbroken” and described Madhumati as a mother figure who played a crucial role in shaping his career. “Her guidance gave me confidence and opened me up as a person,” he noted.

Madhumati’s last rites took place Wednesday evening at the Oshiwara Electric Crematorium in Mumbai.