Aruna Irani made her cinematic debut at the tender age of nine, playing the character of Azra in the 1961 film Gunga Jumna. This marked the beginning of a long and illustrious career in Bollywood, with Irani going on to feature in numerous films, including Jahanara (1964),Farz (1967),Upkar (1967),and Aaya Sawan Jhoomke (1969).
Irani's early years in the industry saw her paired with the renowned comedian Mehmood Ali in films such as Aulad (1968),Jawab, Humjoli (1970),Manmandir, and Naya Zamana (1971). Her breakthrough role came in 1971, when she starred in the film Caravan.
The 1970s saw Irani appear in a string of successful films, including Mehmood Ali's Bombay To Goa (1972),Garam Masala (1972),and Do Phool (1973). Her collaboration with Rajesh Khanna resulted in some of her most memorable performances, with notable films including Dhanwan, Redrose, Amrit, Kudrat, Nasihat, Masterji, and Aan Milo Sajna.
Irani's filmography spans a wide range of genres and styles, with notable titles including Farz (1967),Bobby (1973),Prem Nagar, Paap Aur Punya, Mahachor, Fakira (1976),Bhala Manus, Kali Ghata, Sargam (1979),Love Story (1981),and Rocky (1981). Her performances earned her numerous accolades, including her first Filmfare Best Supporting Actress Award for Pet Pyaar Aur Paap (1984).
In the late 1980s and 1990s, Irani transitioned to playing motherly roles, with notable performances in films such as Beta (1992),for which she won her second Filmfare Best Supporting Actress Award. She also acted in the Kannada remake of the same film, reprising her role as the mother.
Irani's contributions to Marathi cinema are equally impressive, with notable films including Changu Mangu, Lapwa Chapvi, Ek Gadi Baki Anadi, and Bol Baby Bol. In her later years, she ventured into television, featuring in various serials and even taking up direction and production of tele-serials like Mehndi Tere Naam Ki, Des Mein Niklla Hoga Chand, Vaidehi, and more.
On February 19, 2012, Irani was awarded the prestigious 'Lifetime Achievement Award' at the annual Filmfare awards function in Mumbai, a testament to her enduring legacy in the Indian film industry.
