Rakhi Sawant
Rakhi Sawant (born Neeru Bheda; also known as Fatima Rakhi Sawant) is an Indian actress, dancer, and television personality. Known for her bold image and outspoken personality, she has appeared in numerous Bollywood films, reality TV shows, and music videos. Rakhi first gained national attention for her participation in Bigg Boss 1 and later became a finalist in Bigg Boss 14. She is regarded as one of India’s most recognizable reality television figures.[1]
| Rakhi Sawant | |
|---|---|
| |
| Born | 25 November 1978 (age 46) Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Occupation | Actress, Dancer, Television Personality |
| Years active | 1997–present |
| Known for | Bigg Boss, Rakhi Ka Swayamwar, Main Hoon Na |
| Notable works | Chura Liyaa Hai Tumne, Masti, Krazzy 4, Dil Bole Hadippa! |
| Spouse(s) | Adil Khan Durrani (m. 2022) |
| Parents | Anand Sawant (stepfather) Jaya Bheda (mother) |
| Religion | Islam (converted) |
Early Life & Education
Rakhi Sawant was born on 25 November 1978 in Mumbai, Maharashtra, to Jaya Bheda. Her mother later married police constable Anand Sawant, whose surname Rakhi adopted. She grew up in a middle-class Marathi family with her siblings, Usha Sawant and Rakesh Sawant.
Though her formal education remains largely undisclosed, Rakhi displayed an early inclination towards dance and acting, performing at local functions before pursuing a career in entertainment.[2]
Career
Early Career and Breakthrough (1997–2003)
Rakhi began her acting career with a minor role in Agnichakra (1997) under the name Ruhi Sawant. She later adopted the stage name Rakhi Sawant and appeared in small roles and item numbers in films such as Joru Ka Ghulam, Jis Desh Mein Ganga Rehta Hai, and Yeh Raaste Hain Pyaar Ke. Her major breakthrough came with the item song "Mohabbat Hai Mirchi" from Chura Liyaa Hai Tumne (2003), composed by Himesh Reshammiya, which made her a household name.
Establishing Herself in Bollywood (2004–2010)
Following her success, Rakhi featured in several mainstream films including Masti (2004), Main Hoon Na (2004), Krazzy 4 (2008), and Dil Bole Hadippa! (2009). She became known for her vibrant performances in item songs and supporting roles.
Rakhi’s television breakthrough came with Bigg Boss Season 1 (2006), where her candid and dramatic personality captured national attention. She later appeared in Nach Baliye 3 (2007) with then-partner Abhishek Avasthi, finishing as the first runner-up. In 2009, she hosted her own reality show, Rakhi Ka Swayamwar, on NDTV Imagine, where she sought to find a life partner. She got engaged to Canadian contestant Elesh Parujanwala, though the relationship ended soon after.
She went on to host Rakhi Ka Insaaf (2010), addressing social issues, and participated in shows like Welcome – Baazi Mehmaan Nawazi Ki, Comedy Circus, Box Cricket League, and multiple seasons of Bigg Boss.
Continued Success and Television Comeback (2020–present)
Rakhi returned to prominence with Bigg Boss 14 (2020–2021), finishing as one of the finalists. She continued to feature in television appearances and reality shows, including Bigg Boss Marathi 4 (2024), where she again reached the finale. In addition, Rakhi has remained active in stage performances and social media, maintaining her position as a prominent entertainment personality.
Political Career
Rakhi Sawant ventured into politics in 2014 by launching the Rashtriya Aam Party (RAP) and contesting the Lok Sabha elections from Mumbai North-West. After receiving limited votes, she joined the Republican Party of India (A) under Ramdas Athawale. She currently serves as the state vice-president and president of the party’s women’s wing.
Personal Life
Rakhi’s personal life has frequently been in the media spotlight. She claimed to have married Ritesh, an NRI businessman, in 2019, but the relationship ended in 2022. Later, she married Adil Khan Durrani and converted to Islam, adopting the name Fatima Rakhi Sawant.
In 2023 and again in 2025, she performed Umrah in Mecca and helped sponsor trips for underprivileged pilgrims. Despite controversies, she continues to be admired for her outspoken personality and resilience.
Notable Works
- Chura Liyaa Hai Tumne (2003)
- Main Hoon Na (2004)
- Masti (2004)
- Krazzy 4 (2008)
- Dil Bole Hadippa! (2009)
- Bigg Boss (Seasons 1, 14, and Marathi 4)
- Rakhi Ka Swayamwar (2009)
- Nach Baliye 3 (2007)
- Rakhi Ka Insaaf (2010)
Achievements and Recognition
- Recognized as one of India’s most prominent and fearless reality TV stars.
- Widely regarded as a pop culture icon for her outspoken nature and glamorous style.
- Finalist in Bigg Boss 14 and Bigg Boss Marathi 4.
- Hosted popular reality shows and stage performances across India.