Actress Mandakini, renowned for her portrayal of Ganga Sahay in the 1985 film "Ram Teri Ganga Maili," is mourning the loss of her father, Joseph. He passed away on the morning of July 2, 2025. The actress shared the heartbreaking news with her fans and followers on social media, expressing her deep sorrow and paying tribute to her beloved father.

Mandakini posted a photograph of her father on her official Instagram account, along with a heartfelt message. "My heart is shattered today… I lost my beloved father this morning," she wrote. "No words can express the pain of this goodbye. Thank you, Papa, for your endless love, wisdom, and blessings. You will forever live in my heart".

Born as Yasmeen Joseph in Meerut, Mandakini has a diverse background, with a British father and a Himachali mother. She is married to Dr. Kagyur T. Rinpoche Thakur, who transitioned from being a Buddhist monk to running a Tibetan Herbal Centre. The couple has two children: a son named Rabbil and a daughter named Rabze Innaya.

Mandakini rose to fame with "Ram Teri Ganga Maili", produced and directed by Raj Kapoor. The film starred Kapoor's youngest son, Rajiv Kapoor, as the lead opposite Mandakini. The actress's performance in the film was widely recognized, though some scenes, such as those of breastfeeding and bathing in a transparent saree, stirred controversy.

In recent years, Mandakini has largely stayed away from the public eye. She is now devoted to Tibetan yoga and teaches classes. She became a follower of the Dalai Lama. In 2022, she made a comeback with the music video "Maa O Maa" alongside her son.

The actress's tribute to her father reflects a personal moment of vulnerability. The outpouring of condolences and support from fans and industry colleagues demonstrates the lasting impact she has had on Bollywood and the hearts of many.