Chandni Bhabhda: The Digital Creator Making Waves in Bollywood
Chandni Bhabhda represents a fresh wave of talent entering mainstream Hindi cinema, blending digital creativity with traditional film aspirations. As a law graduate who first gained fame through her sharp observational humor and viral mimicry of actor Alia Bhatt, Bhabhda has now taken a significant leap onto the big screen.
A Contemplative Debut in 'Tu Meri Main Tera'
Bhabhda recently marked her cinematic debut in Tu Meri Main Tera, Main Tera Tu Meri, sharing screen space with established stars like Kartik Aaryan, Ananya Panday, and Jackie Shroff. Interestingly, the moment of landing her first feature film was less about celebration and more about quiet reflection.
"Honestly, it took time to sink in," she reveals. "I remember sitting with the news and feeling quiet more than loud excitement. It wasn't instant celebration but disbelief mixed with gratitude. Somewhere inside, I kept thinking, 'Okay, this is actually happening now.' It felt like a pause moment in life."
Overcoming Anxieties on Set
Stepping onto a film set for the first time brought its own set of anxieties. Coming from a non-traditional background, Bhabhda admits she questioned whether she would fit in. "My biggest fear was whether I would belong there. Whether I would look out of place or mess up because I didn't come from a traditional film background. But once the work began, those fears slowly dissolved. I realised everyone is nervous, debut or not," she said.
Observing her co-stars closely became an informal learning process. She notes that "Kartik is constantly switched on, there's so much focus and preparation behind the scenes," while Ananya Panday surprised her with her relaxed yet attentive demeanor. "Both taught me that being present is half the job. You don't have to overthink everything, you just have to show up honestly," Bhabhda reflects.
Learning from Co-Stars and Box Office Realities
Kartik Aaryan's supportive nature left a lasting impression, as he would often come up after scenes with encouraging feedback or small suggestions. Similarly, Ananya Panday's ease and inclusivity made Bhabhda feel welcomed without being treated as a newcomer.
While the film did not perform as expected at the box office, Bhabhda reflects on the experience with remarkable maturity. "It was difficult, of course. But I reminded myself that this was my first step, not my final word," she says. "I allowed myself to feel disappointed, but I didn't let it define me. It taught me early on that outcomes are unpredictable—effort is the only thing you control. It made me more grateful. I realised that I want to build something long-term, not chase instant validation. It is a beautiful film and I am more than grateful to be a part of it."
From Viral Mimicry to Breaking Perceptions
Bhabhda's rise began online, where her mimicry, especially of Alia Bhatt, resonated deeply with young audiences. "Not at all," she says when asked if she expected that kind of response. "I never imagined it would travel the way it did. I was just doing what felt natural to me." Performing the mimicry in front of Bhatt herself was surprisingly comfortable, as the actor's chill reaction put Bhabhda at ease.
However, she acknowledges that being known for mimicry can sometimes lead to being underestimated. "Yes, sometimes. Mimicry can get boxed as 'just comedy,'" she admits. "But I believe the best way to break perception is through work. You don't argue, you show up, perform, and let people reassess on their own."
Building an Authentic Career Across Platforms
Looking ahead, Chandni Bhabhda is clear about the kind of career she wants to build—one that straddles both digital and cinematic spaces without compromising on authenticity. "I want to explore characters that feel real and layered," she says. "I don't want to choose between digital and films—both have shaped me. Right now, I am open, curious, and excited to grow, one honest role at a time."
Her journey from a law graduate to a digital creator and now a Bollywood actor showcases the evolving landscape of Indian entertainment, where talent from diverse backgrounds can find expression and success through persistence and authenticity.
