Kajol, known for breathing life into every role she plays, has officially entered the fourth decade of her film career — a journey filled with iconic performances and unforgettable films that have left a lasting impact on Bollywood and its audience.
Born on August 5, 1974, in Mumbai, Kajol hails from a renowned film family. Her mother Tanuja is a celebrated actress, while her grandfather Shobhana Samarth and grandmother Shobhana Samarth were also part of the film industry. Her father, Shomu Mukherjee, was a director and producer. Growing up in such a creative atmosphere, Kajol’s entry into Bollywood may have been smooth, but maintaining her place through talent and hard work is what made her a true star.
Kajol made her acting debut at just 16 years old in the 1992 film Bekhudi. Although the film didn’t fare well at the box office, her performance was widely praised, paving the way for future opportunities.
Ruling the ’90s and Beyond
In the 1990s, Kajol ruled the film industry with back-to-back hits and powerful performances. Her strong screen presence, natural acting, and expressive features made her stand out. She consistently outshined even the biggest actresses of her time.
She achieved massive fame with the 1993 thriller Baazigar, where she starred alongside Shah Rukh Khan for the first time. Their on-screen chemistry became legendary and led to some of the most successful films in Bollywood history.
Personal Life
In 1999, Kajol married actor Ajay Devgn and took a break from films to focus on her family. The couple has two children — daughter Nysa and son Yug. Recently, Kajol revealed that Nysa has no interest in joining the film industry.
Despite being away from the screen at times, Kajol continued to appear in selective roles in films like We Are Family, Dilwale, and Tanhaji, while also engaging in philanthropic work, especially in the areas of women and children’s education.
Dilwale dulhania le jayenge (1995): The film that defined a generation, featuring the unforgettable character of Simran. It became a timeless classic and ran for over 20 years in Mumbai’s Maratha Mandir cinema.
Gupt (1997): Kajol took on a negative role for the first time and delivered a powerful performance that won her the Filmfare Award for Best Villain.
Kuch kuch hota hai (1998): Another blockbuster with Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol’s portrayal of Anjali remains one of her most loved roles.
Kabhi khushi kabhie gham (2001): A multi-star hit where Kajol once again showcased her magic opposite Shah Rukh Khan.
Fana (2006): Her first major film with Aamir Khan where she played a blind girl. The film’s emotional depth and strong performances earned huge acclaim.
My Name is Khan (2010): A socially relevant film where she played Mandira opposite Shah Rukh Khan. It highlighted the struggles of Muslims post-9/11 and became an international hit.
Recent Projects and Comeback
Kajol recently made a comeback with the horror film Ma (set to release on January 27), marking her first venture into the genre. She plays a mother who battles dark forces to protect her children, a role she has high hopes for.
Kajol’s acting is known for its authenticity. Whether it’s laughter or tears, she brings real emotion to every scene. Her eyes and facial expressions alone can convey an entire story.
Apart from being a successful actress, Kajol is admired for her dignity and grace both on and off-screen. She is a loving mother, a devoted wife, and an active social worker.
Over the years, Kajol has become a symbol of quality, beauty, and truth in Indian cinema. Her legacy continues to inspire millions, and her name remains etched in the hearts of fans around the world.
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