Janhvi Kapoor is a name that has swiftly become synonymous with charm, elegance, and talent in the Indian film industry. Born into Bollywood royalty, Janhvi has made her own mark through dedication, versatility, and a growing body of work that continues to captivate audiences. From her early life to her cinematic journey, this article takes a comprehensive look at the life and career of Janhvi Kapoor.
Early Life and Background
Janhvi Kapoor was born on March 6, 1997, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. She is the daughter of legendary Bollywood actress Sridevi and prominent film producer Boney Kapoor. With her mother being one of the most celebrated actresses in Indian cinema and her father being a powerful figure in the film industry, Janhvi grew up surrounded by fame and glamour.
Her younger sister, Khushi Kapoor, is also a rising social media star and aspiring actress. Janhvi’s family includes her step-siblings Arjun Kapoor and Anshula Kapoor, from Boney Kapoor’s first marriage.
Despite her celebrity background, Janhvi’s upbringing was fairly disciplined. Sridevi was known to be a protective mother, ensuring Janhvi and Khushi remained grounded.
Education and Acting Training
Janhvi Kapoor completed her schooling at Dhirubhai Ambani International School in Mumbai. From an early age, she showed a strong inclination towards acting. However, her parents, especially Sridevi, were initially hesitant about her joining the film industry at a young age.
To polish her acting skills, Janhvi pursued a course in acting at the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in Los Angeles, USA. This is the same institute where Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor trained, and many renowned Hollywood actors like Marilyn Monroe and Al Pacino have studied.
Bollywood Debut with ‘Dhadak’ (2018)
Janhvi Kapoor made her much-anticipated Bollywood debut in 2018 with the film “Dhadak,” directed by Shashank Khaitan and produced by Karan Johar’s Dharma Productions. The film was a remake of the critically acclaimed Marathi movie “Sairat”.
Paired opposite Ishaan Khatter, Janhvi played the role of a young girl from a politically influential family who falls in love with a boy from a lower caste. While the film received mixed reviews, Janhvi’s performance was widely appreciated for her emotional depth and screen presence.
“Dhadak” was a commercial success, grossing over ₹110 crore worldwide, and marked Janhvi Kapoor’s official entry into Bollywood.
Coping with Personal Tragedy
Just a few months before her debut, Janhvi Kapoor faced a personal tragedy that shocked the entire nation. Her mother, Sridevi, passed away suddenly on February 24, 2018, in Dubai due to accidental drowning. Janhvi was filming for “Dhadak” during that time and chose to return to the sets soon after her mother’s demise, showcasing her professionalism and emotional strength.
Sridevi had been eagerly awaiting Janhvi’s debut, and the film’s release became a bittersweet moment for the Kapoor family.
Film Career After Dhadak
Following her successful debut, Janhvi Kapoor signed several notable films that showcased her versatility as an actress.
1. Ghost Stories (Netflix, 2020)
Janhvi appeared in Zoya Akhtar’s short film in the Netflix anthology “Ghost Stories.” Her performance as a nurse dealing with paranormal occurrences received critical praise and showed a different side of her acting range.
2. Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl (2020)
In this biographical drama, Janhvi portrayed Flight Lieutenant Gunjan Saxena, one of the first Indian female air-force pilots in combat. The film was released on Netflix and was praised for its inspiring storyline. Janhvi received acclaim for her sincere and restrained performance.
3. Roohi (2021)
A horror-comedy alongside Rajkummar Rao and Varun Sharma, “Roohi” featured Janhvi in a dual role. Though the film received mixed reviews, her portrayal of two contrasting characters was commended.
4. Good Luck Jerry (2022)
A remake of the Tamil film “Kolamaavu Kokila,” this black comedy highlighted Janhvi’s impeccable comic timing and emotional expressions. The film, released on Disney+ Hotstar, added another feather to her cap.
5. Mili (2022)
In “Mili,” Janhvi played the role of a girl trapped in a freezer, battling for survival. The survival thriller, a remake of the Malayalam film “Helen,” showcased her physical and emotional endurance. Critics and audiences both appreciated her gripping performance.
Upcoming Projects
As of 2025, Janhvi Kapoor continues to rise in her career with a list of exciting projects:
- Mr. & Mrs. Mahi with Rajkummar Rao
- Ulajh, a political thriller
- A Telugu debut film with Jr. NTR, directed by Koratala Siva
- Rumored collaborations with top directors like Sanjay Leela Bhansali and Aanand L. Rai
With each film, she aims to choose diverse and performance-oriented roles that challenge her as an artist.
Public Image and Brand Endorsements
Janhvi Kapoor has quickly become a fashion and style icon among the youth. Her Instagram account boasts millions of followers, where she regularly posts glamorous photoshoots, workout videos, and candid moments.
She has been the face of several major brands including:
- Nykaa
- Lakmé
- Reliance Trends
- Aldo Shoes
- Benetton Perfumes
Her appearances at red carpet events and fashion weeks often earn her a spot on best-dressed lists. Janhvi is also a regular feature in lifestyle magazines like Vogue, Filmfare, and Harper’s Bazaar.
Fitness and Personal Life
Janhvi Kapoor is known for her dedication to fitness. She frequently shares her gym sessions and yoga routines with celebrity trainer Namrata Purohit. Her toned physique and commitment to a healthy lifestyle have inspired many fans.
While Janhvi’s personal life is often a topic of speculation, she maintains a relatively private demeanor. She is known to be close to her family, especially her father and sister Khushi.
Awards and Recognition
Though still early in her career, Janhvi Kapoor has already received several accolades:
- Zee Cine Award for Best Female Debut – “Dhadak” (2019)
- Filmfare OTT Award Nomination – “Gunjan Saxena”
- Lokmat Most Stylish Award – Youth Icon of the Year (2021)
She continues to be a favorite at youth and fashion award ceremonies across India.
Conclusion
Janhvi Kapoor has gracefully stepped out of her mother’s towering legacy to carve her own identity in the Indian film industry. With a strong lineup of films, an evolving acting craft, and a relatable charm, she stands tall as one of the most promising actresses of her generation.
Her journey is only beginning, and with passion, talent, and perseverance, Janhvi Kapoor is set to shine even brighter in the coming years.
