MID-DAY (September 17, 2014)

Given that Bollywood isn’t exactly a degree- driven industry, it’s not surprising to see people from all walks of life in this field. Indeed, many actors and actresses had initially planned to pursue other professions before the acting bug bit them. Newbie Shiba Bhardawaj has a similar story to share. In fact, this aspiring actress has shirked a lucrative career in medicine because she wanted to follow her heart. This MBBS degree holder left her high-paying job to chase her passion: acting.

What’s more, she’s already bagged her first film. Mehmood Ali, owner of Pen N Camera International, has signed her for his forthcoming film, titled Soul. The film’s shooting will start in Malaysia next month and Bhardawaj is said to have just finished work on a smouldering photoshoot for the film.

It may be pointed out that Mehmood Ali’s last film was called Kolkata Junction and it starred Naseeruddin Shah, Jimmy Shergill, Kay Kay Menon and Sonali Kulkarni. He is also looking forward to the release of his two other films: Amitabh Bachchan-starrer, The Great Leader, and Govinda- starrer, Abhinay Chakra.