Our Bureau
Mumbai
Harnaaz Sandhu, the 2021 Miss Universe winner from India, made her much-anticipated Bollywood debut opposite action star Tiger Shroff in Baaghi 4. The 24-year-old model and actress, who has been vocal about her struggles with celiac disease, will play the female lead in the fourth instalment of the popular action franchise.
The Chandigarh-born Sandhu clinched the Miss Universe crown in December 2021, becoming only the third Indian to achieve the honour after Lara Dutta in 2000 and Sushmita Sen in 1994. Her victory drew global attention and marked India’s return to the pageant spotlight after more than two decades. Post her pageant triumph, Sandhu pursued modelling assignments and philanthropic activities, advocating for women’s empowerment and mental health awareness.
Sandhu’s battle with celiac disease—an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten—came to light when she candidly revealed her health struggles during her reign. She faced online body-shaming due to weight fluctuations linked to her condition, later using her platform to highlight the importance of empathy and health awareness.
Baaghi 4, directed by A Harsha, is part of the high-octane action franchise headlined by Shroff, whose martial arts and stunt sequences have drawn mass audiences. Sandhu’s casting marks a rare crossover from the world of global pageantry into mainstream commercial cinema, with industry insiders calling it a pivotal opportunity for the young actress.
For Sandhu, balancing professional milestones with personal resilience underscores her journey from beauty queen to Bollywood star.
