India, May 24 -- For decades, Bollywood operated with an unspoken rule when it came to female actors, marriage often marked the end of their careers. Unlike male superstars, who continued to enjoy long runs at the top even after settling down, many female stars from the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s quietly stepped away from the spotlight soon after marriage, sometimes even at the peak of their fame. Among the many stars who disappeared from films despite massive popularity was Kimi Katkar.

In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Kimi became one of Bollywood's most recognisable glamour stars almost overnight. Known for her bold screen presence, striking looks, and chartbuster songs, she dominated commercial cinema during an era ruled by larger-than-...