Mahima Chaudhry: The actress who made her debut with SRK and Pepsi ad with Aamir and then a car accident and cancer changed all that

Mahima Chaudhry is back in the news after a photo of her with Sanjay Mishra, dressed as a bride and groom, went viral. Though it is now believed to be a part of a promotional campaign, it has again put Mahima in spotlight.

Before stepping into movies, Mahima built a name for herself as a successful model and beauty pageant contestant, even participating in the Miss India competition. Her popularity soared after she appeared in a Pepsi commercial alongside Aamir Khan and Aishwarya Rai, instantly making her a familiar face in Indian households.

Mahima Chaudhry’s dream Bollywood debut

Mahima Chaudhry’s real name is Ritu Chaudhry. It was veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai who brought her into Bollywood. Known for his superstition of naming every leading lady with the letter “M,” Ghai rechristened Ritu as Mahima before launching her in films. That decision marked the beginning of an extraordinary yet challenging journey in Indian cinema.

Mahima’s big-screen debut came in 1997 with ‘Pardes’, opposite Shah Rukh Khan. Her portrayal of the traditional yet strong-willed Ganga struck a chord with audiences. The film turned into a blockbuster, and Mahima won the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut, firmly establishing herself as one of Bollywood’s most promising newcomers.

After achieving early success, Mahima ventured into regional cinema, appearing in Bengali, Punjabi, and South Indian films. Her willingness to take on diverse roles showcased her range and dedication as an actress, earning her appreciation across different film industries.

The life-altering accident

In 1999, while shooting for Dil Kya Kare, Mahima suffered a severe car accident that left her with multiple injuries and facial scars. The traumatic incident forced her to step away from the spotlight for a while. Despite the emotional and physical challenges, she showed remarkable courage and perseverance, eventually making her way back to acting.

A story of strength and survival

Years later, Mahima revealed another personal battle — her fight against breast cancer, which she publicly discussed in 2022. Her openness and resilience inspired countless fans who admired her honesty and strength.

From her dazzling debut with Shah Rukh Khan to overcoming near-fatal injuries and bravely fighting cancer, Mahima Chaudhry’s life is a powerful story of grit, transformation, and unbreakable spirit — proving that true stars shine brightest after the darkest storms.