Kiara-led Meena Kumari biopic begins filming next year
What's the story
Kiara Advani has been confirmed to play the iconic Bollywood actor Meena Kumari in Siddharth P Malhotra's upcoming film Kamal Aur Meena, reported Mid-Day. The movie will explore Kumari's tumultuous relationship with her husband, filmmaker Kamal Amrohi. The production is set to begin in the first half of 2026.
Film focus
Film will explore Kumari's marriage to director Amrohi
The film, produced by Bilal Amrohi, will focus on Kumari's life and her marriage to the director of Pakeezah (1972). A source told Mid-Day, "In Kiara, the director has found a performer who carries vintage Bollywood charm and has the emotional depth to do justice to Meena Kumari's life." This role will be Advani's first portrayal of a real-life character. She reportedly beat Kriti Sanon to bag this film.
Role preparation
Kiara's 1st biopic; male lead still not finalized
The film will be Advani's first project after becoming a mother in July. An insider said, "It gives Kiara enough time to prepare, as she will have to pick up the basics of Urdu." The search for the male lead is still ongoing. Meanwhile, the legendary star Kumari, known for Do Bigha Zamin, Pakeezah, and Mere Apne, among others, passed away in 1972 at 38, reportedly due to liver cirrhosis.