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This Veteran Actress' Career Took A Hit After Her Breakup With Mehmood
Born in 1946 in Mumbai, Aruna Irani stepped into the spotlight as a child artist in the iconic 1961 film Ganga Jumna.
In the Indian cinema, there have only been a few names that shone as bright as Aruna Irani. Having worked in more than 500 films across languages and genres, she left an indelible mark on the audience's hearts with every role she portrayed on screen. From films to impactful roles on television, the veteran actress navigated an extraordinary professional journey. Her personal life due to her affair with Mehmood also gained enough attention from cinephiles.
Born in 1946 in Mumbai, Aruna Irani stepped into the spotlight as a child artist in the iconic 1961 film Ganga Jumna. Her brilliant performance hinted at the brilliance that was yet to be discovered. As the year progressed, she carved a niche for herself with her roles in Anpadh, Upkar, and Farz, gradually rising to fame, one film at a time.
One of the most talked-about chapters of her life revolves around her relationship with the legendary actor Mehmood. What started as a professional collaboration turned into a real-life romantic saga. In a candid chat, Aruna once revealed that she was asked to pursue Mehmood to bag more opportunities in the industry. Little did she know that career advice would slowly turn into a genuine bond.
Despite the strong connection, their relationship couldn't last long. Clashes in their professional lives and family pressure on Mehmood led them to part their ways. The actress had even hoped to marry Mehmood, as she candidly admitted in a previous chat. 'Nobody was giving me work after this break-up. I started doing songs," she told Lehreh Retro, reflecting on her struggles after the separation.
Despite the challenges, Aruna Irani remained unstoppable and did not allow heartbreak to define her. Instead, she started taking on dance numbers and character roles, ultimately proving her versatility as a performer. Films like Beta, Rocky, Caravan, Bombay to Goa, and Roti Kapda Aur Makaan showcased her undeniable ability to create magic on screen.
Later, Aruna secretly got hitched to filmmaker Kuku Kohli. A second wife to him, Aruna once revealed that she kept her marriage under wraps because Kuku was already married and could muster the courage to talk about their relationship after his first wife passed away. Aruna also decided not to have any kids.
Now 78, Aruna Irani remains a powerhouse of talent and a woman who redefined what it means to be a supporting actress.
First Published:
July 08, 2025, 12:40 IST
