Shalini Pandey became an overnight sensation in 2017 with her striking debut in Arjun Reddy, starring alongside Vijay Deverakonda. Her innocent charm and sizzling on-screen chemistry with Vijay won over audiences, making her the internet’s latest obsession. Fast forward to 2024, she is once again in the spotlight with Maharaj, the debut film of Aamir Khan’s son, Junaid Khan.
However, this time, it isn’t just her performance making waves—her uncanny resemblance to Alia Bhatt, both in appearance and voice, has set social media abuzz. But how does Shalini feel about these constant comparisons? Turns out, she’s not entirely flattered.
In a recent interview, the Arjun Reddy actress candidly addressed the ongoing chatter about her similarity to Alia Bhatt. While she acknowledges the love from fans, she firmly asserts her desire to carve her own niche in the industry.
“Alia hai! We don’t need another Alia, and no one should be another Alia, because Alia is so amazing,” Shalini expressed. “Not just because of her films—of course, she’s incredible onscreen. But personally, from what I’ve seen of Alia offscreen as well, I admire her.”
Shalini went on to elaborate on why she doesn’t embrace the comparison wholeheartedly. “I don’t want to be that because there is one Alia. Of course, there are so many admirable qualities that you want to take, but I also want to have my own individuality. I want people to look at me for who Shalini is rather than box me into something. That I’m not okay with. But when they compare me with love, of course, it’s a great comparison because she’s just lovely.”
Despite the buzz, Shalini Pandey remains focused on building her own identity in Bollywood, determined to be recognized for who she truly is rather than as someone else’s lookalike.
