Meet actress who entered films at 16, wanted to marry Sunil Dutt, had crush on Salman Khan, ruled Bollywood in the '80s; Her name is...
Not many can say they were discovered by Yash Chopra, but Poonam Dhillon was. At just 16, she made her debut in Trishul (1978) and quickly rose to fame in the '80s. From working with the biggest stars to being constantly in the limelight, Poonam became a household name. At one point, her name was even linked romantically with Chopra, but she dismissed the buzz, calling it 'just a rumour.'
If you were younger, I'd marry you…
In 1984, Poonam worked with Sunil Dutt in Laila, where he played her father. Behind the scenes, though, she once joked to him, 'If you were younger, I would have married you.' Dutt was not just her co-star; he was also the father of Bollywood's Sanju Baba, Sanjay Dutt.
The real wedding and a short-lived marriage
Though she fantasised about marrying Sunil Dutt, Poonam eventually tied the knot with producer Ashok Thakeria in 1988. But the marriage ended in 1997, just nine years later. Since then, she has chosen to remain single.
Crush on Salman Khan?
As fate would have it, Poonam was already married when Salman Khan made his screen debut in Rekha's Biwi Ho Toh Aisi (1988). Despite being three years older, she had a soft spot for the newcomer. She once said, 'He's cute,' and openly admired his charm. Salman later became a breakout star in Maine Pyar Kiya (1989).
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
9 hours ago
- Time of India
'Maine Pyar Kiya' new poster turns heads; Preity Mukhundhan and Hridhu Haroon's film gets a release date
(Picture Courtesy: Facebook) The upcoming romantic comedy thriller 'Maine Pyar Kiya' has unveiled a brand new poster, setting the stage for an Onam release on August 29. The film promises a vibrant, youthful cinematic experience. 'Maine Pyar Kiya' is produced by Sanju Unnithan under the banner of Spire Productions and helmed by debutant director Faizal. Love,framed in a pause Preity Mukhundhan took to her Instagram handle to share the new poster and the release date update. She wrote a caption that read, "Love,framed in a pause. Fire, hidden in a glance. @Hridhuharoon @preity_mukhundhan #MainePyarkiyaFromAug29." The poster introduces a vivid palette, sunset orange and deep red drapes swirl in the backdrop. The poster creates a dreamy romantic ambiance. Hridayapoorvam - Official Teaser At the center of it all is Preity Mukhundhan, radiating charm in a flowing crimson red gown. Right behind her, Hridhu Haroon reaches out with a playful gesture, dressed in a mustard yellow kurta. His easy warmth and mischievous smile bring out the light-hearted chemistry the film intends to showcase. From 'Mandakini' makers Following the success of 'Mandakini', the makers returns with this romantic tale, backed by a detailed and experienced crew. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like No annual fees for life UnionBank Credit Card Apply Now Undo Don Paul P leads the cinematography, while music is composed by Electronic Kili. Editing is handled by Kannan Mohan, with art direction by Sunil Kumaran. A cast filled with colourful personalities The film stars Hridhu Haroon and Preity Mukhundhan in the lead roles. Hridhu, last seen in the successful film 'Mura', returns with this anticipated project. Preity Mukhundhan, known for her role in the Tamil film Star and the hit music video Aasai Koodai, makes her Malayalam film debut through 'Maine Pyar Kiya'. Joining them are Askar Ali, Midhutty, and Arjyou in key roles. The supporting cast includes Jeo Baby, Sreekanth Vettiyar, Redin Kingsley, Bibin Perumbilli, Thrikkannan, Mime Gopi, Boxer Dheena, Janardhanan, Jagadish, and GV Rex. The film's script is co-written by director Faizal and Bilkefsal.
NDTV
2 days ago
- NDTV
Payal Malik Apologises After Being Brutally Trolled Over Controversial Goddess Kali Video: "It Was A Grave Mistake"
New Delhi: Social media influencer and Bigg Boss OTT 3 contestant Payal Malik has issued a public apology after facing criticism for a video in which she was seen dressed as Goddess Kali. What's Happening The video, which has now been deleted, sparked outrage on social media, with many alleging that it hurt religious sentiments. On Tuesday, Payal visited the Kali Mata Temple in Patiala, where she broke down in tears and asked for forgiveness from devotees and the public. She was accompanied by her husband, YouTuber Armaan Malik, and their daughter Tuba. As part of her apology, the family performed seva at the temple by cleaning utensils and serving food to devotees. Speaking to the media during the temple visit, Payal said, "Whatever punishment is given to me, I am ready to accept it." She also clarified that the video was originally recorded three months ago and was never intended to cause offence. "My daughter is a devoted follower of Kali Maa, so I thought of recreating the look for her. I now realise it was a grave mistake. I fold my hands and sincerely apologise to everyone. I hope no one repeats such a mistake," she said. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Payal Malik (@payal_malik_53) Background Payal explained that the video had been taken down shortly after it was uploaded, once she noticed the negative feedback. "I read the comments, realised my mistake, and deleted it. Unfortunately, some other pages saved it and they are re-sharing it now on their respective social media platforms," she added. The video had shown Payal dressed as Goddess Kali, wearing traditional symbols such as a Trishul and crown. It drew criticism online for what many viewed as a disrespectful portrayal. Payal and Armaan Malik are well-known digital content creators. Armaan, who is married to both Payal and her friend Kritika Malik, often draws public attention for his unconventional family structure. The three appeared together on Bigg Boss OTT 3 and are parents to four children - Chirayu, Tuba, Ayan and Zaid.
Time of India
2 days ago
- Time of India
From ‘Maine Pyar Kiya' to ‘Saiyaara': Bollywood's most memorable debut blockbusters
Bollywood's history is filled with memorable debut films that have launched iconic careers and shaped the industry. From Aamir Khan in 'Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak' to recent sensations like Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda in 'Saiyaara,' these films showcase the magic of fresh faces. These debuts redefine careers and rewrite box office records. In an industry as star-driven as Bollywood, first impressions often become lasting legacies. Over the decades, Hindi cinema has witnessed a long lineage of dream debuts—films that didn't just introduce new faces but redefined careers, shaped pop culture, and sometimes rewrote box office history. As Saiyaara, starring newcomers Ahaan Panday and Aneet Padda, becomes the latest entrant in this elite club of successful debuts, here's a deep dive into some of Bollywood's most iconic and highest-grossing debut launches—this time, in the order they arrived on screen. 1. Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak (1988) – Rs 2.85 crore Debutants: Aamir Khan , Juhi Chawla A landmark love story, QSQT didn't just launch Aamir Khan and Juhi Chawla—it revived the romantic tragedy genre in Bollywood. Its relatively modest box office (by today's standards) belies the massive cultural impact it left behind. 2. Maine Pyar Kiya (1989) – Rs 14.31 crore Debutant (lead): Salman Khan, Bhagyashree Though he had appeared in supporting roles earlier, Maine Pyar Kiya was Salman Khan's breakout as a romantic lead. The love story turned into a generational classic and was among the highest-grossing films of its time. 3. Phool Aur Kaante (1991) – Rs 6.1 crore Debutant: Ajay Devgn, Madhu Ajay Devgn's unforgettable bike stunt became an iconic entry into Bollywood. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 15 most beautiful women in the world Undo by Taboola by Taboola Phool Aur Kaante was a commercial hit, instantly marking him as a rising action star. 5. Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai (2000) – Rs 44.1 crore Debutants: Hrithik Roshan , Amisha Patel Hrithik Roshan became a national obsession overnight. With romance, action, and chartbuster songs, the film was a game-changer and set new benchmarks for debut films. 6. Refugee (2000) – Rs 17 crore Debutants: Abhishek Bachchan, Kareena Kapoor Khan J.P. Dutta's patriotic drama launched the careers of two industry legacies. Both Abhishek and Kareena garnered praise for their confident screen presence, setting the stage for their prolific career . 7. Mujhe Kucch Kehna Hai (2001) – Rs 17.1 crore Debutants: Tusshar Kapoor , Tusshar Kapoor's debut alongside Kareena saw fair success at the box office. The romantic drama was well received by audiences at the time, even though Tusshar's career didn't sustain the same momentum. 8. Saawariya (2007) – Rs 22 crore Debutants: Ranbir Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor Though a commercial disappointment, Saawariya served as a grand launchpad for both Ranbir and Sonam. Ranbir has since grown into the best actor of his generation and has some of the biggest films riding on his shoulder. 9. Rock On!! (2008) – Rs 25.12 crore Debutant: Farhan Akhtar (as actor) Already a respected director, Farhan surprised audiences with his acting and singing debut in Rock On!!. The film was a cultural moment for urban youth and became a sleeper hit. 10. Jaane Tu Ya Jaane Na (2008) – Rs 55.36 crore Debutants: Imran Khan , Genelia D'Souza (Hindi lead debut) A heartwarming tale of friendship and love, the film resonated with the youth and introduced Imran Khan as a relatable romantic hero. 11. Band Baaja Baaraat (2010) – Rs 17.1 crore Debutant: Ranveer Singh Ranveer Singh made an electrifying debut as Bittoo Sharma in this vibrant wedding-themed rom-com. His performance was widely praised and kickstarted a powerhouse career. 12. Pyaar Ka Punchnama (2011) – Rs 9 crore Debutants: Kartik Aaryan , Divyendu Sharma and others With its viral monologue and sharp comedy, this low-budget film became a surprise hit, launching Kartik Aaryan into the spotlight. 13. Vicky Donor (2012) – Rs 35 crore Debutant: Ayushmann Khurrana A bold and unconventional debut, Vicky Donor showcased Ayushmann's ability to blend comedy and emotion. His unique choices have since made him one of the most dependable stars of the era. 14. Student of the Year (2012) – Rs 70 crore Debutants: Varun Dhawan , Alia Bhatt, Sidharth Malhotra Karan Johar's glitzy campus drama introduced three future stars. Their performances, combined with the film's music and production value, made it a major commercial success. 15. Heropanti (2014) – Rs 53 crore Debutants: Tiger Shroff, Kriti Sanon Packed with action and romance, Heropanti established Tiger as the next-gen action star, while Kriti charmed audiences with her screen presence. Both actors now enjoy major fan followings. 16. Dhadak (2018) – Rs 74.19 crore Debutants: Janhvi Kapoor, Ishaan Khattar A remake of Sairat, Dhadak drew attention not just for its story but for Janhvi Kapoor's highly anticipated debut. Despite criticism for softening the original's themes, it was a box office success. 17. Laila Majnu (2018) – Rs 11.50 crore Debutants: Avinash Tiwary, Triptii Dimri This modern retelling of the tragic love story earned critical acclaim. While it wasn't a major commercial hit, it brought attention to Triptii Dimri, who has since emerged as one of the most promising talents. 18. Laapataa Ladies (2024) – Rs 21.11 crore Debutants: Nitanshi Goel, Sparsh Shrivastava, Pratibha Ranta Kiran Rao's charming satire about rural India became a sleeper success. With authentic performances and grounded storytelling, it helped launch three new faces with promise and potential. 19. Azaad ( 2024) ; Rs 6.35 crore Debutant: Amaan Devgan, Rasha Thadani While not widely remembered today, Azaad had a decent box office run, marking a modest debut for Aarya Babbar, though his career didn't quite take off afterward. 20. Saiyaara (2025) – Rs 153.25 crore (6-day total) Debutants: Ahaan Panday, Aneet Padda The latest and perhaps the most spectacular debut of all. With ₹153.25 crore in just six days, Saiyaara has already out-earned most debut films in history. Directed by Mohit Suri, the film's emotional depth, music, and youthful leads have struck a chord with audiences across the country. From modest Rs 2 crore indie romances to Rs 150 crore box office explosions, Bollywood's debut stories are as varied as the stars they introduce. Some films became iconic despite humble earnings, while others stormed into the history books with record-breaking numbers. What unites them all is the magic of a fresh face making a first impression — one that often defines the future of Hindi cinema.
