Alongside generous servings of grace, elegance, poise and oomph over the years, Malaika Arora has waltzed her way into the hearts of Indian audiences since making her celluloid debut in the iconic song, “Chaiyya Chaiyya” from Dil Se.. (1998). The multi-hyphenate—she is an actor, producer, model and style editor—is now creating waves as a judge on shows like India’s Next Top Model and India’s Best Dancer. Arora has come a long way since her VJing days and continues to live life on her own terms, garnering the love and respect of her fans. On the occasion of her 48th birthday, we dug up 6 lesser-known facts about her.
1. She didn't always have Bollywood aspirations
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As a child, Arora had her sights set on being a teacher and even took an interest in child psychology when she was in school. As she grew older, her plans took a different route and she found her footing in the television industry.
2. She considers herself a tomboy
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Arora wasn’t always the sultry siren we know her to be. In an interview, she revealed that growing up she was quite the tomboy and never really took an interest in the “girly” things.
3. She is a professional dancer
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Ever looked at Arora's effortless moves and wondered where she got them from? Her relationship with dance dates back to her childhood when she began showing promise as a dancer at the tender age of 4. The model is trained in ballet, jazz ballet and Bharatanatyam.
4. She loves food
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Considering how intensely the star exercises to maintain her enviable figure, you wouldn't immediately think of her as a diehard foodie. But true to her Malayali roots, Arora loves her rice, sambar, seafood and fish curry. “For some people, rice and starch don’t work, but I’m fine with that”, she says.
5. Her love for food extends to her skincare
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The secret behind Arora's rosy glow is surprisingly not luxury skincare products but the good ol' kitchen hack—beetroot slices. She says the vegetable also hydrates her skin and gives it all the nutrients it needs. Next destination, kitchen.
6. She's a Hrithik Roshan fan
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The star, who has a sizeable flock of loyal fans, is, in turn, a huge fan of Hrithik Roshan. His dancing skills, in particular, never fail to impress her. Can't say we blame her.
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