Introduction
Kalpana Kartik is an Indian actress best known for her work in 1950s Hindi cinema and for her marriage to legendary actor and filmmaker Dev Anand. Known for her elegance, simplicity, and timeless charm, she appeared in a select number of films yet left a significant mark on Bollywood’s golden era. Despite her brief acting career, Kalpana Kartik remains one of the most respected and admired actresses of her time.
This detailed biography explores her early life, family background, acting career, marriage to Dev Anand, lifestyle, and legacy.
Kalpana Kartik Biography / Wiki
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Real Name | Mona Singha |
| Screen Name | Kalpana Kartik |
| Date of Birth | 1931 |
| Age (2025) | 94 Years (approx.) |
| Birthplace | Lahore (Present-day Pakistan) |
| Profession | Actress |
| Husband | Dev Anand |
| Children | Suneil Anand |
| Nationality | Indian |
Early Life
Kalpana Kartik was born as Mona Singha in Lahore in 1931. She grew up in a well-educated Christian family. After the partition of India, her family moved to Shimla, where she continued her studies. She belonged to an environment that valued culture, education, and discipline — qualities that later reflected in her personality and her film roles.
Family Background
Kalpana Kartik came from a respected family of Punjabi Christians. Her upbringing was grounded, and she was known for her intelligence and graceful conduct even before stepping into films.
Her family encouraged her to pursue education, and she eventually enrolled at St. Bede’s College in Shimla.
Education
Kalpana Kartik studied at St. Bede’s College, Shimla, one of India’s most reputed women’s institutions. During her college years, she participated in college events, cultural programs, and beauty pageants. She won a beauty contest, which eventually caught the attention of filmmaker Chetan Anand.
Entry Into Films
Kalpana Kartik’s entry into cinema was not planned. Filmmaker Chetan Anand discovered her talent and beauty when he saw her picture after she won the college beauty contest. He introduced her to the film world under the screen name Kalpana Kartik.
She made her acting debut in Baazi (1951), starring opposite Dev Anand. The film was a major success and marked the beginning of her short but memorable career.
Acting Career
Kalpana Kartik appeared in a few select films, but each role added value to her profile as a leading lady of the 1950s.
Notable Films
Baazi (1951)
Aandhiyan (1952)
Humsafar (1953)
Taxi Driver (1954)
House No. 44 (1955)
Nau Do Gyarah (1957)
“Taxi Driver” became one of the biggest hits of her career and holds special significance as she married Dev Anand during its shooting.
Acting Style
She was known for her:
Soft expressions
Graceful screen presence
Natural dialogue delivery
Charming personality
Her performances often reflected innocence, elegance, and quiet strength.
Marriage to Dev Anand
Kalpana Kartik married Dev Anand in 1954 during the lunch break of the film Taxi Driver. Their wedding was a private and intimate ceremony attended only by close friends.
Why Their Marriage Was Unique
It happened at the peak of Dev Anand’s career.
Kalpana left acting voluntarily after marriage.
Their relationship remained low-profile and dignified.
The couple had a son, Suneil Anand, who later entered the film industry.
Life After Leaving Films
After her marriage, Kalpana Kartik stepped away from acting and chose a quiet, family-centered life. She supported Dev Anand’s film career and remained involved in Navketan Films, the production house run by the Anand family.
She maintained a private lifestyle, rarely giving interviews or making public appearances. This mystery around her life increased public curiosity and made her an iconic figure of old Bollywood.
Personality and Lifestyle
Kalpana Kartik is known for:
Her dignified public presence
Elegant and simple lifestyle
Minimal involvement in media
Strong family values
Graceful aging and privacy
Her composed personality and decision to stay out of the limelight reflect her preference for a peaceful life.
Legacy
Even with a short acting career, Kalpana Kartik created a lasting impact on Indian cinema. Her films with Dev Anand remain classics, cherished for their chemistry and charm.
She is remembered today as:
One of the graceful actresses of the 1950s
A leading lady of Dev Anand’s early films
A symbol of simplicity and elegance
A rare star who chose family over fame
Her legacy continues through her films, archival photographs, and the admiration of cinema lovers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kalpana Kartik’s real name?
Her real name is Mona Singha.
When was Kalpana Kartik born?
She was born in 1931 in Lahore.
Who is Kalpana Kartik married to?
She was married to legendary actor Dev Anand.
What are some famous films of Kalpana Kartik?
Baazi, Taxi Driver, Nau Do Gyarah, and House No. 44.
Why did Kalpana Kartik leave films?
She left acting after marrying Dev Anand to focus on family life.
Disclaimer
This biography is based on publicly available information, historical records, and credible media sources. Some personal details may not be officially documented and are included as generally accepted facts. This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only.
