Mandakini reveals unpaid dues for 16-17 films and reflects on early career

Veteran actor Mandakini has reflected on her early career in the Hindi film industry, revealing that she was never paid for approximately 16 to 17 films. She noted that during that era, film contracts were often informal, with payment arrangements sometimes being settled only after work was completed.

Mandakini described the working environment of her early years as warm and homely, noting that actors and crew members interacted closely and often ate together. She also addressed the legacy of her breakout role in ‘Ram Teri Ganga Maili,’ specifically defending the intent behind the film's famous waterfall scene. She stated that she felt no vulgarity during filming, describing director Raj Kapoor’s guidance as gentle and affectionate, akin to a family member.

She added that the film’s central theme was the preservation of purity against attempts to corrupt it, and she did not view the scene as uncomfortable or indecent.