MUMBAI: Behind the glamour of Bollywood lies a lesser-known, deeply patriotic connection that some of its brightest female stars share—a life shaped by the discipline, courage, and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces. On this Kargil Diwas, as the nation pays homage to its brave soldiers, we turn the spotlight on those actresses who didn’t just wear the uniform on-screen, but were raised in its shadow. These women come from proud Army and defense families, where growing up in cantonment towns, following a disciplined routine, and witnessing the quiet strength of service became a way of life. Their upbringing in military households has shaped their character, resilience, and work ethic—qualities that shine through in their performances and personalities. Here’s a look at some Bollywood actresses who carry the legacy of the armed forces within them.
1) Anushka Sharma
Anushka Sharma grew up in various army cantonments across India. Her father, Colonel Ajay Kumar Sharma, is a retired army officer who bravely served in the Kargil War. Anushka has often spoken about her childhood spent in army quarters, where life was rooted in discipline, routine, and courage. Moving from city to city taught her adaptability and humility—qualities she carries into her acting career and personal life.
2) Priyanka Chopra Jonas
Priyanka Chopra Jonas was born to a family of doctors who served in the Indian Army. Both her parents, Dr. Ashok Chopra and Dr. Madhu Chopra, were army physicians. Priyanka often reminisces about her nomadic childhood, moving across military bases in India. She believes these experiences gave her a broad worldview, a multicultural upbringing, and the emotional strength to thrive in unfamiliar situations—qualities that have helped her transition from Bollywood to global stardom.
3) Nikita Dutta
Nikita Dutta comes from a proud naval family. Her father, Rear Admiral A K Dutta served with distinction in the Indian Navy as Naval Architect. Nikita often shares how growing up in a defence environment instilled in her a deep sense of discipline, structure, and resilience. She has openly acknowledged the silent sacrifices made by naval families, especially the long periods of separation and the emotional strength it demands.
4) Nimrat Kaur
For Nimrat Kaur, her army connection is both a source of pride and deep personal loss. Her father, Major Bhupinder Singh, was an Indian Army officer who sacrificed his life in 1994, after being kidnapped and killed by terrorists in Kashmir. Nimrat was just 11 years old when this tragedy struck. Despite the trauma, she speaks of her father’s bravery and patriotism with grace and gratitude.
5) Rakul Preet Singh
Actress Rakul Preet Singh is the daughter of Army officer Rajender Singh, and her early life was deeply rooted in military culture. In interviews, she has shared vivid memories of her father’s postings, particularly when he was stationed on the Manipur border, while the family lived in Aizawl, Mizoram, for over three years. Those formative years taught her discipline, respect for time, and an adventurous spirit.
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