Celebrating the graceful journey of an actor who transformed television superstardom into a meaningful presence on the big screen
Birthdays invite reflection,
and Mouni Roy’s story is one that deserves to be looked at with admiration. Born on September 28, 1987, in Cooch Behar, West Bengal, she stepped into the world of acting with the courage to explore. Her career has not been a straight road. It has been layered, filled with reinventions, and marked by an ability to adapt. Today, she is known not only as a familiar face on television but also as a performer who made her mark in Indian cinema.
First Steps on Television
Her debut came in 2006 with Ekta Kapoor’s legendary serial Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, where she played Krishna Tulsi. The show gave her a foothold in Indian households. Soon after, she participated in Zara Nachke Dikha and displayed her dance skills, a talent rooted in her Kathak training. Roles followed in Kasturi and later in mythological dramas. She portrayed Sati in Devon Ke Dev... Mahadev, a part that required both grace and emotional depth. This role, in particular, gave her national visibility and demonstrated that she could handle characters of significance.
The Rise of a Star with Naagin
Her career took a significant leap in 2015 with the release of Naagin. Playing Shivanya, and later her daughter Shivangi, she became one of the most popular faces on Indian television. The supernatural drama broke viewership records and made Mouni a household name. Her performance combined mystery, strength, and elegance, making her inseparable from the character. The success of Naagin catapulted her to become one of the highest-paid actresses on TV. She returned for Naagin 2, which also enjoyed immense popularity, cementing her reputation as the queen of supernatural thrillers.
Transition to Cinema
While television gave her unmatched fame, Mouni’s ambition extended to the silver screen. Her first notable film appearance came in Punjabi cinema with Hero Hitler in Love in 2011. But it was Gold in 2018, opposite Akshay Kumar, that marked her proper Bollywood debut. She played Monobina Das, the spirited wife of the hockey team captain. The film was both a commercial and critical success, and audiences appreciated her confident screen presence. She followed it up with Romeo Akbar Walter, alongside John Abraham, and Made in China, with Rajkummar Rao, each showcasing her willingness to take on varied roles.
Brahmastra and the Antagonist’s Power
In 2022, Mouni took her boldest step yet with Brahmastra: Part One – Shiva. As Junoon, the mysterious villain, she faced the challenge of standing out in a film featuring Amitabh Bachchan, Ranbir Kapoor, and Alia Bhatt. Yet her performance was one of the most discussed elements of the movie. Critics noted her intensity, and fans praised her for giving a new dimension to her career. The role earned her respect in the film industry as a serious performer, breaking the perception that she was limited to fantasy and television.
Recognition and Challenges
With Brahmāstra, Mouni gained critical recognition, even appearing on lists of the year’s standout performances. Still, she has spoken openly about the challenges of typecasting. In interviews, she revealed that despite the praise, she was not always considered for larger opportunities in Bollywood. Yet she continues to persevere. Her resilience lies in her refusal to settle for labels and her willingness to wait for roles that allow her to grow.
Versatility Across Mediums
Beyond acting, Mouni has made a mark in other areas. She appeared in chart-topping music videos, such as "Gali Gali" from KGF: Chapter 1, which became a massive hit. She has also judged reality shows such as Dance India Dance Li’l Masters and hosted events, expanding her presence on television. A trained Kathak dancer, she frequently performs on stage, blending classical roots with modern appeal. Her work in fashion and her appearances at international events further showcase her versatility and global recognition.
What Lies Ahead
Mouni continues to expand her horizons. She is part of upcoming projects, such as The Virgin Tree, a horror comedy starring Sanjay Dutt, and has appeared in Sajini Shinde Ka Viral Video, which explored a darker, more experimental space. She has also expressed interest in roles that are layered and challenging, whether in thrillers, dramas, or even art-house cinema. With each choice, she shows a commitment to reinvention rather than repetition.
