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Sonu Walia The Miss India, who shined in Bollywood and beyond

TOI Entertainment Desk
| ETimes.in | Last updated on - Jul 21, 2025, 16:00 IST
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1/5

Pageant Winner Turned Actress

Sonu Walia won the prestigious Femina Miss India Universe title in 1985, representing India at Miss Universe the same year. This victory opened doors for her in modeling and eventually led her to Bollywood.

2/5

Breakthrough with Khoon Bhari Maang

Although she debuted with Shart in 1986, it was Khoon Bhari Maang (1988) that made her a household name. Her portrayal of the glamorous yet cunning antagonist won her the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress.

3/5

Career Challenges Due to Her Height

Standing around 5’7”, Sonu’s tall stature reportedly limited her opportunities. Many filmmakers hesitated to cast her opposite leading male actors of the time, who were comparatively shorter.

4/5

Personal Life Away from Films

In 1995, Sonu married NRI hotelier and producer Surya Pratap Singh. She stepped away from acting and moved to the United States, focusing on family life until his death in 2009.

5/5

Return as a Producer

After her husband’s passing, Sonu returned to India and co-founded a production house. She recently ventured into filmmaking, working behind the scenes on projects like Jogiyaa Rocks, marking a new chapter in her career.

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Copyright © Jun 8, 2026, 05.46AM IST Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service