Bollywood star Akshay Kumar took to social media to express his grief over the passing of his dance mentor, veteran actor-dancer Madhumati. The 84-year-old artist, known for her contribution to Indian cinema in the 1950s and 60s, passed away at her Juhu residence due to age-related issues.
Akshay, who trained under Madhumati during his early years, described her as his “first and forever guru.” Sharing a series of throwback pictures with her, he wrote, “Everything I know about dance, I learnt at your feet, Madhumati ji. Har ada, har expression mein aapki yaad hamesha saath rahegi. Om Shanti.” His words reflected deep gratitude for the teacher who, he said, helped shape his confidence as a performer.
Born as Hutoxi Reporter, Madhumati adopted her stage name after the release of Dilip Kumar’s classic “Madhumati.” A celebrated Kathak and Western dancer, she became one of the most admired performers of her time. Over the years, she also mentored many Bollywood stars including Chunky Pandey, Tabu, Sonam Kapoor, and Vindu Dara Singh.
Journalist Chaitanya Padukone, a close associate of the late dancer, shared that she passed away peacefully in her sleep. “She had no illness, just age catching up,” he said. Madhumati, who ran her own dance academy named ‘MAA’, lived a quiet life devoted to teaching and art. Her students and admirers remember her not only as a remarkable artist but also as a mentor whose discipline and grace defined generations of dancers.
