Many Bollywood stars have changed their names for a fresh start in the industry, and Mahima Chaudhry is one such example. Born as Ritu Chaudhary, she was rechristened as Mahima Chaudhry by legendary filmmaker Subhash Ghai. Ghai believed that names starting with the letter ‘M’ brought luck and success to his leading actresses. This belief led him to sign Ritu for his film Pardes opposite Shah Rukh Khan, launching her career under her new name Mahima Chaudhry.

Born on September 13, 1973, in Darjeeling to a Nepali mother and father from Baghpat, Mahima completed her schooling in a convent school in Darjeeling and won the title of Miss Darjeeling. After moving to Mumbai, she was spotted by Subhash Ghai, who not just cast her in Pardes but also gave her the screen identity that would stick with her for life.

Pardes (1997) marked Mahima's Bollywood debut, and the film became a superhit. Her role opposite Shah Rukh Khan earned her the prestigious Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut. Following this, Mahima acted in a string of successful films such as Daag: The Fire and Pyaar Koi Khel Nahin in 1999, both well received at the box office.

Over the years, she appeared in notable films like Dhadkan, Baghban, Dil Hai Tumhara, Dil Kya Kare, and Kurukshetra. Though she took breaks at points in her career, Mahima has made a strong comeback with recent projects like The Signature and Emergency. Off-screen, she has faced personal challenges including a battle with breast cancer and raising her daughter as a single mother after her divorce in 2013.

Mahima Chaudhry's journey from Ritu to a celebrated Bollywood actress is a testament to the power of transformation, opportunity, and resilience. Her birthday is a celebration of the actress who continues to inspire many in the industry today.