Shukla Kumar, Wife of Veteran Actor Rajendra Kumar, Passes Away; Prayer Meet on January 10
Digital Desk
Shukla Kumar, wife of late Hindi film actor Rajendra Kumar and mother of actor Kumar Gaurav, passed away on Wednesday, the family confirmed. She was known to maintain a low public profile throughout her life. A prayer meet in her memory will be held on January 10, according to information shared by family sources. The cause of her death has not been disclosed.
Shukla Kumar’s passing marks the end of a quiet but significant chapter in one of Hindi cinema’s well-known film families. While she remained largely away from the spotlight, she was closely associated with the personal and professional journey of Rajendra Kumar, one of the most successful actors of his era. Family members said she preferred a private life and was rarely seen at public or industry events.
Married to Rajendra Kumar at the height of his career, Shukla Kumar witnessed his rise as a leading star during the golden period of Hindi cinema. The couple had three children — son Kumar Gaurav and daughters Dimple and Manorama. The family has received condolences from members of the film fraternity following the news.
Rajendra Kumar, popularly known as “Jubilee Kumar,” enjoyed a remarkable four-decade career and acted in over 80 films. He earned his nickname due to the consistent box office success of his films, many of which completed silver jubilee runs. His most notable works include Goonj Uthi Shehnai, Dil Ek Mandir, Mere Mehboob, Sangam and Arzoo. He passed away on July 12, 1999, after suffering a heart attack and was also battling cancer at the time.
Their son, Kumar Gaurav, entered Hindi cinema in 1981 with Love Story, which became a major commercial success and established him as a popular romantic lead. His on-screen pairing with Vijayta Pandit was widely appreciated, and the film turned him into an overnight star. He later appeared in films such as Teri Kasam, Star, Naam and Kaante. Despite early success, his later career did not replicate the impact of his debut, and his last film appearance was in Kaante in 2002.
The prayer meet scheduled for January 10 is expected to be attended by close friends, relatives and members of the film fraternity. The family has requested privacy during this period of mourning.
