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

Ep. 009 - "I Quit My Job To Make My Indie Game"