“Empowered Beginnings: Manisha Koirala’s Inspiring Journey from Naïve Newcomer to Cinematic Icon”
When Manisha Koirala first appeared on the silver screen in Subhash Ghai’s 1991 film Saudagar, she was often compared to the gorgeous Madhuri Dixit. In a candid conversation with a leading media outlet, Manisha shared her thoughts on these early comparisons. Looking back, she confessed that she wasn’t particularly flattered at the time, but today she feels honored, recognizing Madhuri’s undeniable beauty and grace. Manisha expressed her admiration not only for Madhuri’s looks but also for her wonderful personality, saying, “As a person, I just love her. And it was quite an honor.”
Manisha revealed that she was a “rebel” when she first ventured into the film industry, determined to carve her own path rather than follow the conventional route suggested to her. However, sharing the screen with Madhuri in Rajkumar Santoshi’s 2001 film Lajja altered her perspective. By then, she had matured, appreciating Madhuri’s humility and exceptional talent. Moreover, she meticulously prepared herself to match Madhuri’s famed dancing prowess in the song “Badi Mushkil.”
An intriguing twist to Manisha’s debut journey was Madhuri’s instrumental role in it. Manisha discovered later that Madhuri had recommended her for Saudagar after spotting her in a photoshoot by Rakesh Shrestha. Madhuri had even urged Subhash Ghai to consider Manisha for his film, leading to the pivotal call that launched her career. Manisha reminisced about her early days in the industry, describing herself as being “too young, too naive,” fresh out of school, and overwhelmed by the unfamiliar world of cinema.
Interestingly, just three years after her debut, Manisha ended up replacing Madhuri in Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s memorable 1994 romantic period film, 1942: A Love Story. Currently, Manisha recently appeared as Mallika Jaan in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Netflix series Heeramandi: The Diamond Bazaar, while Madhuri’s latest role graced the big screen in Anees Bazmee’s hit horror comedy, Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3.
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