Janhvi Kapoor, born on March 6, 1997, is an Indian actress who swiftly made her mark in Hindi cinema. Her entry into acting with the 2018 romantic drama “Dhadak” was met with substantial commercial success. While subsequent film releases didn’t achieve similar box office heights, Janhvi’s performances drew attention.

She notably portrayed the titular aviator in “Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl” (2020), earning acclaim for her portrayal of the pioneering female pilot. Additionally, her role as a woman trapped in a freezer in “Mili” (2022) showcased her versatility, leading to further recognition and nominations for the prestigious Filmfare Award for Best Actress.

Despite the mixed reception of her films, Janhvi Kapoor continues to captivate audiences with her acting prowess and dedication to diverse roles, positioning herself as a promising talent in the vibrant landscape of Indian cinema.

Early life and background

Janhvi Kapoor, born on March 6, 1997, is the daughter of film producer Boney Kapoor and the late actress Sridevi. Her family ties extend to film personalities like her uncles, Anil Kapoor and Sanjay Kapoor. Alongside her younger sister Khushi.  Janvi shares a bond with half-siblings Arjun Kapoor and Anshula Kapoor from her father’s previous marriage.

Tragically, Kapoor experienced the loss of her mother at the age of 20, when Sridevi passed away due to an accidental drowning in Dubai.

Her educational journey led her through Ecole Mondiale World School in Mumbai  and before venturing into films. Janvi honed her skills by undertaking an acting course at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in California.

Career

Debut and female-led films (2018–2022)

In 2018, Janhvi Kapoor stepped into the spotlight with her debut in “Dhadak,” a remake of the Marathi film “Sairat.” Despite mixed reviews, the film’s commercial success paved her way into Bollywood. Critics were divided on her performance . With Rajeev Masand praising her endearing presence while others like Anna M. M. Vetticad. He found her lacking in depth. She secured the Zee Cine Award for Best Female Debut, marking a promising start.

Her subsequent ventures included a notable appearance in Zoya Akhtar’s segment of the Netflix anthology “Ghost Stories. Where Kapoor’s performance stood out amidst mixed reviews. However, it was her portrayal of Gunjan Saxena in “Gunjan Saxena.  The Kargil Girl” that earned recognition. Despite varying opinions on her portrayal.  Janvi’s  dedication to the role garnered a Filmfare Award nomination for Best Actress.

Following this, her roles in “Roohi” and “Good Luck Jerry” received criticism from both critics and box office returns. Despite the acknowledgment of her earnestness in “Mili,” a remake of the film “Helen,” comparisons to the original performance affected the film’s success. Despite the ups and downs, her talent continued to earn her nominations and recognition within the industry.

2023 onward

In Nitesh Tiwari’s “Bawaal” (2023), Janhvi Kapoor co-starred with Varun Dhawan.  In a romantic drama centered on a couple navigating their tumultuous relationship while exploring Europe and learning about World War II. However, the film faced criticism upon its digital release on Amazon Prime Video due to concerns about trivializing the Holocaust. Beatrice Loayza’s review in The New York Times highlighted the lack of chemistry between the leads and critiqued Kapoor for appearing “lacking in charisma.”

Moving forward, Kapoor is set to feature in the sports film “Mr and Mrs Mahi.  Sharing the screen with Rajkummar Rao.  And will take on the role of a young Indian Foreign Service officer in the political thriller “Ulajh.” Additionally. She’s slated to star opposite N. T. Rama Rao Jr. in the Telugu action film “Devara,” directed by filmmaker Koratala Siva.