Chandni Bhabhda on her big Dharma debut: “When I heard ‘Action’ for the first time, I knew this wasn’t just content creation anymore, this was cinema”

Chandni Bhabhda on her big Dharma debut: “When I heard ‘Action’ for the first time, I knew this wasn’t just content creation anymore, this was cinema”

• Chandni Bhabhda left law for acting, debuting with Dharma Productions.
• Her family grew supportive after seeing her dedication and success in cinema
• She bonded with co-stars Kartik Aaryan, Jackie Shroff, and Ananya Panday on set

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Chandni Bhabhda’s journey from a law background to the big screen found its most defining moment during the audition process for Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri. What began as a familiar cycle of auditions and waiting slowly turned into something far bigger.

Recalling when the reality truly hit her, Chandni shared with Moneycontrol, “The process involved auditions, waiting, second-guessing, the usual emotional rollercoaster. Initially, I was even rejected. I think it truly sank in on the first day on set when I was in costume and heard ‘Action’ for the first time. That’s when it hit me that this wasn’t just content creation anymore, this was cinema and that too for Dharma Productions.”

The moment came with gratitude and responsibility in equal measure. “I remember feeling extremely grateful and also very responsible, because I wanted to do justice to the opportunity,” she adds, reflecting on the weight of stepping into mainstream cinema.

Coming from a legal education, Chandni’s career shift was met with concern at home. She speaks candidly about her family’s initial hesitation. “Initially, there was concern, which is natural. Law is a safe, structured path, and content creation can feel unpredictable.” Over time, that concern turned into trust. “Once they saw my consistency and how seriously I was taking the work, they became very supportive. I think they realised this wasn’t a phase, it was purpose. Today, they’re proud, and that means everything to me.”

On set, Chandni found herself surrounded by warmth, humour, and encouragement. Working with Kartik Aaryan brought plenty of laughter. “Kartik has this very mischievous energy,” she recalls. “Ananya and Kartik once pranked me on set in the varmala scene, completely unexpected.” Beyond the fun, she admired his work ethic. “Behind the fun, he’s extremely hardworking. Nobody knows when he sleeps because he’s constantly working.” His encouragement left a strong impression. “After scenes, he would come and say things like, ‘Chandni, yeh scene tune mast kiya,’ or suggest small improvisations. That support really boosts your confidence.”

Her time with Jackie Shroff offered a different kind of learning. “Jackie sir has this beautiful calm about him,” she says. “He teaches you that longevity comes from being rooted, staying connected to who you are beyond fame.” She admired his humility. “He carries so much experience, yet there’s zero arrogance. We hung out like ‘bhidus.’ He reminded me that if you respect your craft and stay humble, the industry eventually respects you back.”

Chandni also formed a close, sister-like bond with Ananya Panday. “Ananya is genuinely a darling,” she smiles. “She’s extremely sweet, very warm, and incredibly beautiful. When you see her in person, her skin literally glows. She’s literally a Disney Princess.” Their bond came easily. “We’d sit together, talk about random things, laugh a lot. I even mimicked her in front of her once.” What stood out most was Ananya’s ease. “She’s very chill, very secure, and made me feel completely comfortable. It really felt like a sisterly equation.”

For Chandni Bhabhda, the experience was more than a film set. It was a quiet confirmation that imagination, persistence, and purpose can eventually meet reality.