Sanya Malhotra, born on February 25, 1992, in Delhi, India, has rapidly emerged as a prominent figure in Bollywood. Her journey from a middle-class Punjabi family to the silver screen is both inspiring and a testament to her dedication and talent.
Early Life and Family Background
Sanya was born to Sunil Malhotra, an engineer, and Renu Malhotra, a homemaker. She has an elder sister named Shagun Malhotra. Growing up in a supportive environment, Sanya’s parents played a pivotal role in nurturing her artistic inclinations. From a young age, she exhibited a passion for dance and the performing arts, which her family wholeheartedly encouraged.
Educational Pursuits and Dance Aspirations
Sanya completed her schooling at Ryan International School in Mayur Vihar, Delhi, and later graduated from Gargi College, University of Delhi. Her academic journey was complemented by her deep-seated love for dance. A trained ballet dancer, Sanya aspired to make a mark in the world of dance. In 2013, she participated in the dance reality show ‘Dance India Dance’ but did not progress beyond the top 100. Undeterred by this setback, she remained in Mumbai, determined to carve a niche for herself in the entertainment industry.
Transition to Acting and Breakthrough with ‘Dangal’
While in Mumbai, Sanya began auditioning for various roles and appeared in several commercials. Her perseverance bore fruit when she was selected for the role of Babita Kumari in the 2016 blockbuster ‘Dangal.’ The film, based on the real-life story of wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat and his daughters, became the highest-grossing Indian film ever, earning more than ₹2,000 crore worldwide. Sanya’s portrayal of Babita was met with critical acclaim, marking her as a promising newcomer in Bollywood.
Diverse Roles and Continued Success
Following ‘Dangal,’ Sanya showcased her versatility by taking on a variety of roles. In 2018, she starred in Vishal Bhardwaj’s drama ‘Pataakha,’ portraying one of two warring sisters from Rajasthan. The same year, she appeared in the comedy ‘Badhaai Ho,’ which was both a critical and commercial success. Her performances in films like ‘Photograph’ (2019), ‘Shakuntala Devi’ (2020), and ‘Ludo’ (2020) further solidified her reputation as a talented and versatile actress.
Sanya Malhotra’s Parents
Throughout her journey, Sanya’s parents have been her pillars of strength. Their unwavering support and belief in her abilities have been instrumental in her success. In interviews, Sanya has often spoken about how her mother, Renu Malhotra, took her to see astrologers when she expressed her desire to pursue acting, reflecting a blend of concern and support. Additionally, Sanya has shared instances where her mother contributed to her career in unique ways. For example, during the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne, Sanya wore a kurta handmade by her mother, honoring her craftsmanship and love.
Overcoming Challenges and Personal Growth
Sanya’s journey has not been without challenges. During her childhood, she suffered from a stammering problem, which she overcame with time. In the competitive world of Bollywood, she faced critiques about her appearance. A casting director once suggested she undergo jaw reconstruction surgery to enhance her prospects. However, Sanya chose to embrace her natural self, focusing on honing her craft rather than altering her appearance.
Recent Projects and Future Endeavors
Sanya continues to captivate audiences with her performances. Her recent works include ‘Pagglait’ (2021), where she played a young widow discovering herself, and ‘Meenakshi Sundareshwar’ (2021), a romantic comedy exploring a long-distance marriage. Her dedication to diverse roles and storytelling keeps her at the forefront of contemporary Indian cinema.
Conclusion
Sanya Malhotra’s ascent in Bollywood is a narrative of talent, resilience, and unwavering familial support. Her parents, Sunil and Renu Malhotra, have been integral to her journey, providing the foundation upon which she built her dreams. As she continues to explore varied roles and narratives, Sanya remains a beacon of inspiration for aspiring artists, exemplifying the impact of passion combined with steadfast support.
