Before establishing herself as a popular television actor, Mahhi Vij says she had explored opportunities in films and music videos after moving to Mumbai. During her stint on Bigg Boss 20, Mahhi revisited the early phase of her career and recalled an opportunity to work with acclaimed filmmaker Mani Ratnam in Yuva.
Speaking to fellow contestant Kanika Mann, Mahhi claimed that Mani Ratnam had selected her for a role in the 2004 film. The part ultimately went to Kareena Kapoor, who starred opposite Vivek Oberoi in the film.
Mahhi said circumstances surrounding the project changed after what she described as strained “equations” with someone associated with the film.
Mahhi Vij Recalls Her First Music Video
Mahhi said her career began taking shape soon after she arrived in Mumbai. She recalled getting a music video opportunity almost immediately after moving to the city.
“Bombay gayi toh aate hi mujhe music video mil gaya, woh pink dress wala, ‘Tu Tu Hai Wahi’. Woh pehla music video,” she said.
In English, she explained that she got her first music video soon after arriving in Mumbai and that it was the one in which she wore a pink dress for Tu Tu Hai Wahi.
According to Mahhi, more music-video opportunities followed, and she became part of several projects that she remembers as successful.
“Uske baad meri life se bahut saare music videos, saare hit kiye maine, saare,” she said, recalling that she went on to feature in numerous music videos.
Mahhi Claims Mani Ratnam Selected Her for Yuva
Mahhi subsequently moved from music videos into films, including projects in South Indian cinema. She recalled working with actors such as Prabhu Deva and Mammootty before getting the opportunity to audition for Mani Ratnam.
“Mani Ratnam ne mujhe Yuva ke liye select kiya,” Mahhi said, claiming that the filmmaker had selected her for Yuva.
The role she was referring to was Mira, a character eventually played by Kareena Kapoor. In Yuva, Kareena starred alongside Vivek Oberoi, Ajay Devgn, Abhishek Bachchan, Rani Mukerji and Esha Deol.
Mahhi said she did not ultimately get to play the part because of what she described as strained equations with someone involved with the project.
“But wahan pe kuch equations thodi kharab ho gayi thi kisi ke saath,” she said.
Mahhi did not elaborate in the conversation on the identity of the person she was referring to or provide further details about what led to the change in casting.
More Film Projects Did Not Materialise
Mahhi said the experience was followed by discussions around several other film projects. According to her recollection, she returned to Delhi after Yuva and was subsequently in talks for two or three more movies.
However, she said those projects also fell through at the last moment.
With her film plans not progressing, Mahhi eventually turned her attention towards television. The move proved significant for her career, as she went on to become a familiar face on Indian television.
From Films to Television Stardom
Mahhi gained widespread recognition for playing Nakusha in the television series Laagi Tujhse Lagan. She later appeared in shows including Balika Vadhu and expanded her presence through reality television.
She has participated in shows such as Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa and Khatron Ke Khiladi.
