Yamini Malhotra on Fun Punjabi Sets and Professional Telugu Floors

Yamini Malhotra, who has made her mark in films and television, fondly recalled her dual debut in the Punjabi and Telugu film industries back in 2016. The actress had both her films—Main Teri Tu Mera in Punjabi and Chuttalabbayi in Telugu—release on the same day, making her entry into cinema a rather unique experience.

Sharing her memories, Yamini said, “I started with Punjabi and Telugu, on the same date. I made my debut in Punjabi cinema and Telugu cinema on the same date, incidentally two movies got launched on the same day. Punjabi film was shot first and then the Telugu. For the Punjabi movie I did shoot in Chandigarh and Firozpur, the working environment was like we all are relatives, and we are staying in the same hotel, attending someone’s wedding. It was full on fun, everyone was having a gala time, it didn’t feel like we were working professionals, we were vibing like family.”

The contrast between both industries struck her immediately. “When I went to the Telugu industry, everybody was a little uptight, nobody was talking to anybody, and I was like, what is this? Everyone would come, do the shot and leave, no one was talking to anyone. Me being a Punjabi in Telugu industry, I started slowly talking to everyone and soon enough we were having lunches together. My producer even said, ‘Yamini, you changed the vibe here,’ but let me tell you, Telugu industry is very professional, and the way stars are treated is incredible,” Yamini added.

While her journey began with films, Yamini’s talent shone brighter on television. She gained widespread recognition for portraying Shivani Chavan in the hit series Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin, where audiences adored her strong screen presence. Always versatile in her career choices, she continued to take bold steps into reality TV as well.

In 2024, she joined the popular reality show Bigg Boss 18 as a wild card contestant, bringing her effervescent personality and candor to the big stage. From films to television to reality shows, Yamini Malhotra’s career reflects a blend of adaptability, charm, and a knack for leaving her imprint wherever she goes.