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Key Points

Sonu Walia shared a heartfelt throwback from her first modelling assignment in 1983, reminiscing about her early struggles in Mumbai. She revealed how her ₹1500 paycheck covered her living expenses, marking the start of her career. The actress also reflected on her iconic role in 'Khoon Bhari Maang', which still defines her legacy. Walia’s journey from modelling to Bollywood remains an inspiring tale of perseverance.

Key Points: Sonu Walia Shares Nostalgic Throwback From First Modelling Gig

  • Sonu Walia recalls her first modelling gig in 1983 behind Taj Mumbai
  • Earned ₹1500, enough for a month’s rent and food
  • Won Miss India 1985 before Bollywood fame
  • Credits 'Khoon Bhari Maang' for lasting stardom as Nandini
2 min read

Sonu Walia gets nostalgic, shares throwback picture from her 1st modelling gig

Former actress Sonu Walia reminisces about her first modelling job in 1983, earning ₹1500, and her journey to stardom in 'Khoon Bhari Maang'.

"11th August 1983, the first modelling job I landed... stars in her eyes – Sonu Walia"

Mumbai, Aug 11

Former actress Sonu Walia, who is known for ‘Khoon Bhari Maang’, ‘Dil Aashna Hai’ and others, is celebrating 42 years of her journey.

On Monday, Sonu took to her Instagram, and shared a picture of herself from her 1st modelling assignment. In the picture, she can be seen playing Israj.

She also penned a long note in the caption in which she spoke about her first gig. She wrote, “11th August 1983, the first modelling job I landed at Mitter Bedi's studio right behind the Taj. Calendar shoot for a pharmaceutical company. I earned 1500 rupees which was enough to pay for a month of my PG digs and food. Hence started my modelling career for a girl who came to Mumbai with 4000 rs in her pocket ( saved from fashion shows with Hemant Trivedi) and stars in her eyes”.

She further mentioned, “This shoot validated my decision to move from Delhi (where I was studying) to this big beautiful city of opportunity! A decision I never regretted. Modelling and winning the Miss India pageant in 1985 followed. 11th August 1988, 5 years later, Khoon Bhari Maang released and changed my life forever. Its been 37 years now since its release and I think I am known more as Nandini than my birth name ever since. with people actually telling me, ‘Oh it released 7 years ago’. That’s the freshness and appeal I guess for which the credit goes to my director Rakesh Roshan”.

“Guess I’m feeling a wee bit nostalgic about this day, I just wanted to share where it really started from. Have a great week everyone. May you all realise your dreams in this lifetime”, she added.

Sonu, who is a psychology graduate and a student of journalism, took up modelling and she entered the Miss India contest winning the title and represented India at the 1985 edition of Miss Universe.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
₹1500 for a month's expenses in 1983! Shows how much times have changed. My PG in Andheri costs ₹15k now 😅 Still, her story gives hope to small town dreamers.
A
Arjun K
Khoon Bhari Maang was my mom's favorite film! She still talks about that iconic revenge scene. Sonu Walia's performance was truly ahead of its time.
S
Sarah B
While I admire her journey, I wish she had continued acting. We need more strong female characters like Nandini in today's films too. The industry lost a gem too soon.
K
Karthik V
That throwback pic is gold! The 80s had such simple yet elegant styling. Today's modeling shoots are so overproduced. Miss those classic looks!
M
Meera T
As a Delhi girl who moved to Mumbai last year, this really hits home! The city does give opportunities if you're willing to work hard. #MumbaiDreams

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