Anita Hassanandani: Overcoming Challenges in Life and Career
Actor, previously prohibited from windowside views, launched Bollywood career alongside industry icon, subsequently abandoned Southern film productions due to encounters with casting manipulation
Born as Natasha Hassanandani on the 14th of April, 1981, Anita Hassanandani hails from a conservative Sindhi Hindu family in Mumbai. Growing up, she lived under strict rules, prohibited from wearing Western clothes, standing by the window, and even stepping out past 7 pm. Her relationship with her father was strained due to his alcoholism and his desire for a son. After her father's passing when Anita was just 16, she took up a job as a receptionist at Manoj Kumar's office to support her family. This unexpected opportunity led her to the film industry, as Manoj Kumar's son offered her a photoshoot[1][3].
A Career Marked by Struggles
Anita made her television debut in Idhar Udhar (1998) and later entered the film industry with the Telugu movie Nuvvu Nenu (2001), which was a commercial success[3]. However, she faced challenges, including encounters with the casting couch in South Indian cinema, which prompted her to leave the South film industry[3]. Despite these struggles, she went on to have a successful career in Hindi television, known for roles in Kkavyanjali, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Yeh Hai Mohabbatein, and Naagin 3[2].
Personal Challenges and Career Lows
Anita married Rohit Reddy in 2013 and had a son, Aarav, in 2021. Upon becoming a mother, she faced assumptions about her career post-motherhood, with many assuming she would not return to work. However, she has been keen to revive her career, even compromising on fees to secure roles[4][5]. Recently, she participated in the reality show Chhoriyan Chali Gaon, which required her to spend time away from her son, a decision she found difficult but necessary to pursue her passions[4][5].
Anita has also spoken about battling depression during career lows and the importance of pursuing her goals despite personal challenges[4]. Since her return to the industry, she has not faced any significant personal or professional challenges related to her father, alcoholism, or strained relationship.
A Resilient Spirit
Throughout her career, Anita Hassanandani has shown a resilient spirit, overcoming numerous challenges and setbacks. From her humble beginnings as a receptionist to her successful stints in television and films, she continues to inspire with her determination and perseverance. Currently, she is seen in the reality show Choriyaan Chali Gayi on Zee TV[6].
In the realm of finance, Anita Hassanandani's resilient spirit and perseverance have been the defining factors in her career, as she enthusiastically compromises on fees to secure roles, demonstrating a strong commitment to her passion for entertainment despite being a celebrity mother. This resilience extends beyond the Defi market and into her personal life, as she bravely grapples with depression during career lows, drawing inspiration from her own experiences to motivate others.