Pardes Fame Mahima Chaudhry Eyeing Bollywood Comeback After Battling Cancer

Mahima Chaudhry: A Sparkling Debut and Life’s Challenges in Bollywood

Mahima Chaudhry burst onto the Bollywood scene in 1997, dazzling audiences alongside Shah Rukh Khan in the hit film “Pardes.” Before stardom, Mahima, then known as Ritu Chaudhry, was a model hoping for her big break. Director Subhash Ghai, known for his lucky “M” actresses like Meenakshi Seshadri and Madhuri Dixit, suggested the name change for good fortune.

“Pardes” was a smash hit, raking in millions and becoming one of the year’s biggest Bollywood films. Mahima won the prestigious Best Female Debut award, her career looking bright. She even landed a role in Ram Gopal Varma’s highly anticipated “Satya.” But just before filming began, tragedy struck. Urmila Matondkar replaced Mahima, who learned about it through the media. “I was insulted and disappointed,” she shared, feeling cheated and unheard.

Despite this setback, Mahima continued to shine. While filming “Dil Kya Kare,” however, fate took another turn. A terrible car accident in Bengaluru left her with glass embedded in her face. She underwent emergency surgery, requiring the removal of 67 glass fragments. The accident caused lasting scars, both physical and emotional.

While she continued acting in films like “Daag,” “Dhadkan,” and “Lajja,” her career momentum slowed. Injuries and personal battles made it difficult to maintain the initial pace. Yet, Mahima remained resilient, proving her talent and dedication in every role she took on.

ALso Read: Mahima Chaudhry to Sonali Bendre: Bollywood actresses who overcame cancer

Mahima’s story is one of both dazzling highs and unexpected challenges. She entered Bollywood with a bang, only to face the harsh realities of the industry and life-altering events. Through it all, her spirit and talent shone through, making her a force to be reckoned with.

In 2022, the actress was with breast cancer, from which she recovered in the same year.

While Mahima Chaudhry worked in subsequent films like Dil Kya Kare, Daag: The Fire, Lajja, and Dhadkan, none could replicate the success of her debut. Now, poised for a comeback, she is set to feature in Kangana Ranaut’s political drama Emergency, portraying the influential cultural activist and writer Pupul Jayakar.