Mahima Chaudhary Turns 51: Actress’ Comeback Story of Resilience and Talent

Mahima Chaudhary is celebrating her 51st birthday today, September 13. She made a notable debut in 1997 with the romantic drama Pardes. In this Subhash Ghai directorial, she starred alongside Shah Rukh Khan. Her performance received widespread acclaim, marking the beginning of a successful career in both lead and supporting roles. Over the years, Mahima has left a significant mark with her versatile and memorable films.

As we honour her special day, let’s delve into her journey in the entertainment industry, her iconic films and songs, her courageous battle with cancer and what she has been up to recently.

Mahima Chaudhary 51st Birthday: Her Journey As An Actress

Mahima Chaudhary began her career as a video jockey before making her debut in Bollywood in Subhash Ghai’s Pardes in 1997, where her performance earned her Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut.

Known for her versatility, she took on varied roles in the late 90s and early 2000s, from playing a widow in Pyaar Koi Khel Nahin (1999) to portraying a young bride fighting dowry in Lajja (2001).

Mahima’s memorable performances in films like Dhadkan (2000), Khiladi 420 (2000) and Dil Hai Tumhaara (2002) solidified her place in Bollywood.

She also made a remarkable appearance in Salman Khan’s Tere Naam in 2003 where she appeared in the song O Jaana.

She continued to explore different genres by starring in movies like Baghban (2003), LOC Kargil (2003), The Film (2005), Zameer: The Fire Within (2005), Home Delivery (2005) and Souten: The Other Woman (2006).

After a hiatus, Mahima made a comeback with films like Mumbhaii-The Gangster (2015) and Bengali film Dark Chocolate (2016). However, these films couldn’t leave an impact on audiences.

Mahima Chaudhary 51st Birthday: Top Films

1. Pardes (1997)Pardes features Shah Rukh Khan and Mahima Chaudhary in a romantic drama about love and tradition. With strong performances from Amrish Puri and Alok Nath, it remains a memorable Bollywood classic.
2. Dhadkan (2000)Dhadkan, directed by Dharmesh Darshan, is a romantic drama featuring Akshay Kumar, Shilpa Shetty, Suniel Shetty and Mahima in lead roles. Inspired by the novel Wuthering Heights, the film explores love and relationships with a compelling musical backdrop.
3. Lajja (2001)Directed by Rajkumar Santoshi, Lajja is a crime drama highlighting the struggles of four women facing abuse and discrimination. The film addresses the issue of female empowerment and social injustice. The ensemble cast includes Manisha Koirala, Rekha, Anil Kapoor, Madhuri Dixit, Ajay Devgn, Jackie Shroff and Mahima.
4. Khiladi 420 (2000)Khiladi 420 is an action thriller film which is directed by Neeraj Vora and stars starring Akshay Kumar and Mahima. The film was released on December 29, 2000. It is part of the Khiladi series, which features suspense and action in a gripping narrative.
5. Baghban (2003)Directed by Ravi Chopra, Baghban stars Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini as an elderly couple neglected by their children. The drama focuses on the challenges of ageing and the struggles of respect and care in a family.

Mahima Chaudhary 51st Birthday: Top Songs

1. Aksar is Duniya Mein (Dhadkan)Aksar is Duniya Mein from the film Dhadkan is a timeless classic, beautifully sung by Alka Yagnik, with lyrics by Sameer and music composed by Nadeem – Shravan.
2. Meri Mehbooba (Pardes)Meri Mehbooba is a memorable romantic song, sung by Alka Yagnik and Udit Narayan. With its enchanting melody and heartfelt lyrics by Anand Bakshi, it beautifully captures the essence of love and longing.
3. Pehle Kabhi Na Mera Haal (Baghban)Pehle Kabhi Na Mera Haal from Baghban features Salman Khan and Mahima Chaudhary in a heartfelt sequence. The song is sung by Alka Yagnik and Udit Narayan, making it an evergreen charming song.
4. Dil Diwana Na Jane (Daag: The Fire)Dil Diwana Na Jane is a heartfelt song featuring the soulful voice of Anuradha Paudwal. The lyrics have been penned by Sameer and the music is composed by Rajesh Roshan.
5. O Jaana (Tere Naam)In the 2003 film Tere Naam, Mahima made a special appearance in the song O Jaana alongside Salman Khan. Sung by Udit Narayan, Kamaal Khan, KK and Alka Yagnik, the track adds a memorable touch to the film’s soundtrack.

Mahima Chaudhary 51st Birthday: Cancer Battle

In 2022, Mahima was diagnosed with breast cancer, with veteran actor Anupam Kher publicly announcing the news. In her interview with Times Of India back then, Mahima discussed her challenging four-month treatment in Mumbai.

“I can’t even begin to tell you how difficult the treatment was for me. I don’t want to talk about that because I don’t want people to get rattled by it. It is curable, so I don’t want anyone to be afraid of the treatment,” she had told the portal.

Mahima Chaudhary 51st Birthday: Upcoming Projects

Mahima is now ready to make her return to cinema with Kangana Ranaut’s Emergency. The film, based on the Indian Emergency period from 1975 to 1977, features Kangana portraying Former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

The film also features Anupam Kher, Shreyas Talpade, Vishak Nair, Milind Soman and Satish Kaushik in pivotal roles. The film was set to release on September 6 but the delay in certification postponed the film’s release.