Born on February 23 1969 in Sangli Maharashtra Bhagyashree comes from a royal background. She is the granddaughter of Chintamanrao Dhundirao Patwardhan the last ruling Raja of Sangli during British rule. Her father Vijay Singhrao Madhavrao Patwardhan is the titular Raja of Sangli. Despite her privileged upbringing Bhagyashree carved her path in the entertainment world making a name for herself in Bollywood. While Maine Pyar Kiya is widely considered her big break Bhagyashree’s first acting role came earlier. She made her debut with the 1987 television series Kachchi Dhoop directed by acclaimed filmmaker Amol Palekar. The role came to her unexpectedly after the original actress backed out and Palekar offered her the part. However she did not complete the project as fate had bigger plans for her in Bollywood. In 1989 Bhagyashree took the industry by storm with Maine Pyar Kiya directed by Sooraj Barjatya. Starring opposite Salman Khan the film became one of the highest-grossing movies of its time and gained cult status. Bhagyashree’s portrayal of Suman an innocent and lovable character won the audience’s hearts. Her on-screen chemistry with Salman Khan was widely appreciated and she became an overnight sensation. However despite achieving instant stardom her Bollywood journey was short-lived. Just as her career was taking off Bhagyashree made a surprising decision she left the film industry to marry Himalaya Dasani. At a time when many actresses were striving to build long-term careers she chose love over fame. Over three decades later she remains happily married. The couple has two children—Abhimanyu Dasani who followed in her footsteps with Mard Ko Dard Nahi Hota and Avantika Dasani. Though her Bollywood career was brief Bhagyashree’s legacy as a one-film wonder continues to be remembered fondly by fans.