Sonali Bendre began her career as a model before transitioning into the Indian film industry. She made her debut at the age of 19 with the film Aag. Over the years, she has acted alongside top stars like Sanjay Dutt, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan. Known for her roles in films like Major Saab and Hum Saath Saath Hain, Sonali Bendre remains one of the most familiar and beloved faces in Bollywood.
In this episode of the ANI Podcast with Smita Prakash, Sonali opens up about her acting journey and her book release, 'A Book of Books'. She talks about her marriage to Goldie Behl, becoming a mother, and her brave battle with cancer.
Sonali also shares stories of working with the three Khans, welcoming Michael Jackson to India, and taking Dakota Johnson to temples. She addresses the viral video from an event with Raj Thackeray and sets the record straight.
A passionate animal lover, Sonali also speaks about her new podcast centred around animals and her bond with them.
Audio Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
00:26 - Sonali Bendre's Book
07:50 - Importance of Reading
10:50 - Bucket List
11:34 - Battle with Cancer
16:57 - Family Support during Cancer
18:58 - Acting with Khans
22:22 - Sabbatical after childbirth
26:18 - Stories from 'Hum Saath Saath Hain' Set
30:48 - Favourite Co-stars
33:15 - Salman Khan as a co-star
35:33 - Relation with Ajay & Kajol
36:25 - Working on Sarfarosh
43:43 - Working on Films in Different Languages
46:20 - First Meeting with Husband
01:00:29 - Bollywood's pay disparity
01:04:30 - Dakota Johnson Visiting India
01:06:03 - Welcoming Michael Jackson
01:11:31 - Voicing Up for Stray Dogs
01:17:57 - Friendship in Bollywood
01:19:10 - Sonali’s Ultimate Dream Movie
