In the glittering archives of 90s Bollywood, few debuts shone as brightly as Ritu Shivpuri’s in Aankhen. Her electrifying dance in ‘Lal Dupatte Wali’ turned her into an overnight sensation, the darling of Om Shivpuri and Sudha Shivpuri. But where has this former leading lady disappeared to after gracing both big and small screens?
Hailing from Mumbai on January 22, 1975, Ritu inherited a powerhouse legacy. Om Shivpuri’s screen presence defined eras with roles in Dahshat, Andhiyan, Bhabi Ho To Aisi, and Hatyaa. Sudha Shivpuri’s portrayal of the formidable ‘Ba’ in Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi made her a TV legend.
Ritu’s film career kicked off triumphantly with Aankhen, followed by a string of releases including Rock Dancer, Aar Ya Paar, Bhai Bhai, and Hum Sab Chor Hain. Often likened to Karisma Kapoor, her fresh appeal promised much. Yet, as Bollywood’s tides turned, she explored South films and TV to sustain momentum.
On television, Ritu delivered compelling performances in Iss Pyaar Ko Kya Naam Doon 3, Vish, Nazar, and Karanjit Kaur. Her 2023 Netflix stint in Class hinted at a comeback, but she chose a different spotlight. Now wed to Hari Venkat, she’s built a successful jewelry design empire.
Social media is her new stage, filled with elegant photoshoots, fitness routines, event appearances, and behind-the-scenes of her jewelry line. Ritu’s transition from actress to designer underscores her adaptability in a fickle industry, inspiring many with her multifaceted success.