In a remarkable turn of events, filmmaker Vidhu Vinod Chopra’s latest offering, “12th Fail,” has not only triumphed at the box office but has also secured its place as the highest-rated Indian film of all time on IMDb. The Vikrant Massey-led biographical drama, which hit theaters in October, tells the inspirational real-life story of IPS officer Manoj Kumar Sharma.
Medha Shankar: The New National Crush
One of the standout performances in the film comes from Medha Shankar, who portrays the character of Shraddha Joshi. With her compelling portrayal, Medha has experienced a surge in popularity, earning her the title of the nation’s crush. The actress recently shared her admiration for Bollywood icon Shah Rukh Khan, revealing her love for his films like “KKHH,” “K3G,” and “KHNH.”
In an interview with Faridoon, Medha expressed, “I realised I was the biggest Shah Rukh Khan fan. SRK sir has managed to gain love from people which is so much deeper than being a good actor, being a superstar. You love him as a person; I get mesmerized by the things he says. I’m a massive Shah Rukh sir fan.”
A Journey from Modeling to Bollywood Stardom
Hailing from Noida, Uttar Pradesh, Medha Shankar began her career in the entertainment industry with modeling and television advertisements. Her acting debut came in 2019 with the British television series “Beecham House,” where she essayed the role of Roshanara. Over the years, she showcased her versatility in various genres, from comedy to drama.
Medha gained recognition in 2021 with the Hindi teen musical movie “Shaadisthan” and later starred in the streaming series “Dil Bekaraar.” However, her breakthrough role came in 2023 with “12th Fail,” where she played Shraddha Joshi, an aspiring UKPSC officer. The character’s depth and Medha’s portrayal have been widely appreciated, making her the new sensation on the internet.
Behind the Scenes: Medha Shankar’s Dual Talent
Vidhu Vinod Chopra recently disclosed an intriguing detail about Medha Shankar’s contribution to the film. The actress, who is a trained Hindustani classical singer, lent her own voice to the movie. Chopra stated, “She is actually singing on location. When I was casting, I wanted to cast a girl who could sing. In the movie, it is not Shreya Ghoshal’s voice. It’s Medha Shankar singing on location – that’s location sound.”
Apart from her acting prowess, Medha’s musical talent adds another layer of authenticity to her on-screen presence. Her early education in Noida, graduation from Delhi University, and a master’s degree in Fashion Management from the National Institute of Fashion Technology showcase the actress’s diverse skill set.
Medha Shankar’s mother, Rachana Raj Shankar, a reputed dance and play choreographer, adds to the actress’s artistic lineage. Medha’s grounding in Hindustani classical music, coupled with her academic achievements, reflects a holistic approach to her career.
Conclusion:
“12th Fail” continues to resonate with audiences, not just for its compelling narrative but also for the stellar performances by Vikrant Massey and Medha Shankar. As the film breaks records and sets new standards, Medha Shankar’s ascent to becoming the internet’s new crush solidifies her position as a rising star in the Indian film industry. With her talent, dedication, and diverse skills, Medha Shankar is undoubtedly one to watch in the coming years.
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