Biography
Mamta Kulkarni was born into a Marathi-speaking family and grew up on Yari Road, Versova, Andheri West, with her two sisters, Mithila and Moulina.
Despite her Marathi accent and limited fluency in English, Mamta secured several roles in Bollywood films, debuting in 1992 with Tiranga. She went on to appear in movies like Karan Arjun, Sabse Bada Khiladi, Baazi, and her last film, Kahbhi Tum Kabhi Hum, released in 2002. Her role in Aashiq Awara opposite Saif Ali Khan, son of Sharmila Tagore, earned her the Filmfare & Lux 'New Face' award.
In most of her films, she was portrayed as a glamorous, sensual performer often involved in song-and-dance sequences. She attempted to break this typecast in Raj Kumar Santoshi's Chinagate, but the film failed commercially, and this, along with other disagreements, led to a fallout between Mamta and Santoshi.
In 1993, Mamta stirred controversy by appearing topless—though with her arms crossed over her chest—in the September issue of Stardust magazine. This provoked backlash from conservative groups, resulting in her arrest, a court conviction in 2000, and a fine of Rs. 15,000.
She faced further controversy when she appeared in court wearing an Islamic burkha, drawing criticism from Islamic groups.
Another controversy arose in 1997 when she appeared on stage at an event organized by a Bihar legislator who was later arrested for involvement in a scam; Mamta has denied any connection to the scandal.
Her natural beauty and candidness sparked jealousy and tension among other leading actresses, particularly Urmila Matondkar, leading to public disputes.
There is no denying Mamta's striking beauty and talent, and many believe she deserves a second chance in films. Although she has relocated to the United States, she still has a loyal fan base that hopes for her return to the screen someday.
