Gayatri Joshi, once a well-known face in Indian advertising, made a stunning debut in Bollywood opposite the legendary Shah Rukh Khan. Despite her promising start, Gayatri chose to step away from the limelight after just one film, opting for a life away from the cinematic world. Her story intertwines with that of her husband, Vikas Oberoi, a billionaire businessman with a net worth of over Rs 28,000 crore. Let's delve deeper into the life and career of Gayatri Joshi and her remarkable journey.
Early Life and Modeling Career
Born in Nagpur in 1977, Gayatri Joshi began her journey into the world of modeling during her college years. Her natural beauty and poise quickly made her a sought-after model. She appeared in advertisements for renowned brands such as Godrej, LG, Ponds, Bombay Dyeing, Sunsilk, and Philips, becoming a household name in India.
In 1999, Gayatri participated in the Miss India pageant, where she emerged as one of the five finalists. The following year, she was crowned Miss India International, representing India at the Miss International 2000 pageant in Japan. Her success in the modeling world set the stage for her entry into Bollywood.
Bollywood Debut with Swades
Gayatri Joshi's Bollywood debut was nothing short of a dream come true. She starred opposite Shah Rukh Khan in the film "Swades," directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker. Released in 2004, "Swades" tells the story of an NRI NASA engineer, played by Shah Rukh Khan, who returns to his roots in India. Despite its compelling storyline, the film did not perform well at the box office. However, both Shah Rukh Khan and Gayatri Joshi received praise from critics for their heartfelt performances.
A Surprising Career Decision
Despite the positive reviews and the potential for a flourishing career in Bollywood, Gayatri Joshi made the unexpected decision to quit acting after "Swades." This decision left many fans and industry insiders surprised. Instead of pursuing further roles in films, Gayatri chose to marry Vikas Oberoi, a prominent businessman.
Marriage to Vikas Oberoi
Vikas Oberoi, the Chairman and Managing Director of Oberoi Realty Ltd, is one of India's most successful entrepreneurs. With a market capitalization of around Rs 30,000 crore, Oberoi Realty is a major player in the real estate sector. Vikas Oberoi, aged 52, boasts a net worth of USD 3.5 billion (over Rs 28,000 crore), making him one of the richest individuals in India. According to Forbes, he ranks as the 65th richest Indian.
Gayatri Joshi and Vikas Oberoi tied the knot shortly after the release of "Swades." The couple resides in Mumbai and has two children. Despite stepping away from the film industry, Gayatri has continued to lead a fulfilling life, focusing on her family and other personal pursuits.
Life After Bollywood
Gayatri Joshi's decision to leave Bollywood might have been surprising, but it reflects her desire for a different kind of fulfillment. Her journey from a successful model to a praised actress, and finally to a life of personal contentment, is inspiring. While she may not be in the public eye as much anymore, her story remains a testament to following one's heart and making bold life choices.
In summary, Gayatri Joshi's journey from the modeling world to Bollywood, and eventually to a life of personal satisfaction with her billionaire husband, is a unique and fascinating tale. Her ability to excel in various fields and her courage to make unconventional choices highlight her as a remarkable individual in the world of South Indian cinema and beyond.