Meet Twinkle Khanna who debuted at 21, got engaged twice, met her husband during a photoshoot, worked with all three Khans and left Bollywood at 27

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As I reflect upon the journey of Twinkle Khanna, a woman who dared to defy the expectations set by her lineage and forge her own path, I am left in awe. Born into the glamorous world of Bollywood, she was destined for stardom, yet chose to carve out a niche for herself away from the silver screen.

It’s often assumed that a child of a well-known actor in the entertainment world easily thrives in film, benefiting from parental support and avoiding hard work. However, this isn’t true for every actor. Take, for example, Twinkle Khanna, who started her career at 21 but soon recognized it wasn’t her path. By age 27, she had departed the industry, having acted in numerous unsuccessful movies.

Twinkle Khanna hails from Mumbai, born on December 29, 1973, as the elder daughter of renowned actor Rajesh Khanna and actress Dimple Kapadia. Her educational journey began at New Era High School in Panchgani. Initially aspiring to become a chartered accountant, she chose a different path when she entered Bollywood, not only for the fame but primarily to assist her mother financially.

At the age of 21, she made her first appearance opposite Bobby Deol in the film “Barsaat” in 1995. The movie, produced by Dharmendra as a stepping stone for his son’s Bollywood career, was a financial hit. Prior to its premiere, Khanna had already secured two more projects, solidifying her presence within the industry. However, she faced a series of box office failures starting with “Uff! Yeh Mohabbat” and “Itihaas”.

In 1998, the film Jab Pyaar Kisise Hota Hai with Salman Khan had a good run at the box office for her. She collaborated with her current spouse, Akshay Kumar, on International Khiladi and Zulmi in 1999, and that same year she acted alongside Shah Rukh Khan in Baadshah.

She worked with all three Khans and starred with Aamir Khan in Mela, but the film was a box-office failure, and she decided to get married, leaving the industry. Her last film appearance was in Love Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega (2001).

Previously known as an actress, she encountered Akshay Kumar during a photoshoot for Filmfare magazine. Following two broken engagements which they eventually terminated, the duo tied the knot on January 17, 2001. Post-wedding, she decided to quit acting as it no longer provided her joy. Given their contrasting personalities, many anticipated their separation; however, they have been married for over two decades and continue to thrive. The couple are blessed with a son named Aarav and a daughter named Nitara.

After quitting acting in 2002, she shifted to different interests and established an interior design business called “The White Window” in Mumbai. Since then, she has worked alongside numerous actors and also co-produced movies such as Tees Maar Khan and Pad Man.

In addition to shining brightly as a celebrated author, Twinkle’s works such as Mrs Funnybones, The Legend of Lakshmi Prasad, and Pyjamas Are Forgiving have graced bestseller lists. Her columns in The Times of India and Daily News and Analysis garnered popularity for their candid style and keen insights.

The actress known for her roles in Mela has publicly stated that she doesn’t take pride in her acting career and even made lighthearted comments about banning her films. She chose to step away from Bollywood to devote herself to family, writing, and other creative pursuits. Lately, she has earned a Master of Arts degree from London.

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2024-12-28 04:23