Face of "Lambi Judaai": Veteran actress Madhu Malhotra dies at 72

MUMBAI: The Hindi film industry is mourning the loss of veteran actress Madhu Malhotra, who passed away on March 13, 2026, at the age of 72. Her last rites were held on March 14 at the Oshiwara Crematorium in Mumbai.

Madhu Malhotra was a familiar and recognizable face in Indian cinema during the 1970s, 1980s, and early 1990s. While she did not always occupy the screen as a lead actress, her presence in numerous mainstream productions and memorable musical sequences left a lasting impression on audiences. Throughout her career, she appeared in over 100 films, building a steady reputation through her dedicated performances in supporting roles.

She made her acting debut with the Ramsay Brothers' horror film Andhera (1975). Her entry into mainstream cinema was marked by her role in Shakti Samanta's The Great Gambler (1979), where she played the sister of Amitabh Bachchan’s protagonist.

Malhotra is remembered for her contributions to several classic Hindi films, including:

• Hero (1983): Directed by Subhash Ghai, this remains one of her most iconic appearances. She is widely remembered for her performance in the soulful track "Lambi Judaai," where she appeared in a gypsy-style look, creating a visual that remains synonymous with the song.
• Satte Pe Satta (1982): In this popular action-comedy, she played the love interest of the character Budh (portrayed by Paintal) and was featured in the song "Mausam Mastana."
• Other Works: Her filmography includes roles in notable titles such as Karz (1980), Vishwanath (1978), Vidhaata (1982), Rishta Kagaz Ka, Qayamat, and horror dramas like Khooni Murda (1989) and Roohani Taqat (1991).

In recent years, Madhu Malhotra had largely stayed away from the public eye. She did not always seek the centre stage, yet her consistent work across various genres established her as an enduring part of the cinematic memory of her era.

The industry and her fans have expressed their condolences, remembering her as a professional artist who brought pathos and life to the characters and songs she graced.