Sonali Kulkarni’s Rare Journey: From Hrithik’s Mother to Nani’s Mother

Actress Sonali Kulkarni has had an unusual journey in Indian cinema. While it is common for actresses to take up mother roles later in their careers, Sonali played the mother of Hrithik Roshan in Mission Kashmir when she was only 26. Yet, the role did not limit her career. She went on to appear as a leading lady in films such as Dil Chahta Hai, opposite Saif Ali Khan, and Pyaar Tune Kya Kiya. Years later, she played Salman Khan’s mother in Bharat, despite being nine years younger than him, a casting choice that attracted considerable attention.

Now, Sonali has once again impressed audiences as Sammakka, Nani’s mother, in The Paradise. Her character has emerged as one of the emotionally significant elements of the film. Sonali has previously spoken about the different expectations placed on male and female actors when they take up unconventional roles. Her career spanning more than three decades includes several acclaimed performances and honours. She received a National Film Award Special Mention for the Marathi short film Chaitra (2002). The Good Road (2013), in which she acted, was also selected as India’s official entry for the 86th Academy Awards.