Onkar Kulkarni (BOMBAY TIMES; August 29, 2020)

The list of The Times 50 Most Desirable Women 2019 has been unveiled, and India has made its choice! The ranking is based on votes cast in an online poll (on www.toi.in/mostdesirablewomen), along with an internal jury. The list features women under 40 from various fields and industries across the country, and it puts the spotlight on the young and new breed — from women who have made heads turn with their great looks, confidence, talent and style, to those who have made news over the years for the right reasons. This year, Disha Patani takes the top spot on this list. In 2019, the actress featured in Bharat and she was recently seen in Baaghi 3 and Malang. Here’s what she had to say about winning the coveted title...

How does it feel to be India’s Most Desirable Woman of 2019?
I feel the audience is too kind. I am grateful for all the love that I’ve been receiving and it’s a beautiful feeling. It’s fun, but at heart, I am still the tomboy I used to be.

What do you think are the qualities that make you desirable?
I think my relatability is what resonates with the audience. It could be anything — being my own version of fashionable or maybe, staying fit. But, above everything, I am thankful for people’s love and the fact that they find me desirable.

Who would you credit for supporting and nurturing you to be the best version of yourself that we see today?
My mother and sister. They are two of the strongest women I know, and they have really helped me be the best version of myself. And then, the credit goes to my directors, filmmakers, my team and most importantly, my audience. I am always driven to deliver my best to the audience, and their response keeps me motivated.

And, who according to you, is the most desirable man in Bollywood?
Well, everyone has a desirable personality. But, I think Shah Rukh Khan leads the game, undoubtedly.