By Jagmohan Singh Barhok
Sushmita Sen, Femina Miss India 1994, won laurels for the country when she was Crowned Miss Universe 1994 at a glittering gala at Philippine International Convention Center in Pasay City, Philippines. She was the first Indian beauty to win the coveted title. Back home, Miss Sen took to films as was expected, making her debut in 1996 release “Dastak” also starring Mukul Dev & Sharad Kapoor, story of a man who was obsessed with a ‘Beauty Queen’ played by Sen. It was followed by a successful David Dhawan starrer “Biwi No. 1″ (1999), a comedy drama. The story begins with a cheating husband falling for a glamorous woman. It ends with the husband realizing that his wife loved loved him from the core of her heart whereas the other girl (Sushmita Sen) loved him for materialistic gains. It also stars Karishma Kapoor, Anil Kapoor & Saif Ali Khan. The film won Sen her first Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress. “Sirf Tum” (1999) was another film which added to her popularity as an actress of substance.
“Kyunki Main Jhooth Nahi Bolta” also starring Govinda & Anupam Kher, “Paisa Vasool”, “Karma Aur Holi”, “Do Knot Disturb”, “Dulha Mil Gaya” & “Problem” are some other films the actress did. Also featured in “Taali” based on the life of ‘transgender’ activist Gauri Sawant. Also appeared on small screen.
Sen who ended her three-year-old relationship with Rohman Shawl in 2021, also featured in well conceived & gripping web series “Aarya” playing a woman forced into narcotics trade. The series was well received by critics & viewers.
