Name: Sonam Khan
Birth Name: Bakhtavar Khan
Other Names: Sonam Rai
Occupation: Actress
Years Active: 1987–1994
Spouse: Rajiv Rai (1991-2016, divorced)
Children: 1
Sonam Khan, born as Bakhtavar Khan in India, embarked on her journey into the world of entertainment with a Telugu film debut titled "Samrat" in 1987. However, it was under the guidance of renowned filmmaker Yash Chopra that she adopted the screen name "Sonam" for better marketability in the Indian film industry. Her Bollywood debut came in 1988 with the film "Vijay," where she starred opposite Rishi Kapoor.
Sonam's career soared in the late '80s and early '90s, with notable appearances alongside Bollywood icons like Govinda, Chiranjeevi, and Naseeruddin Shah. Her performances in films like "Tridev," "Kroadh," and "Vishwatma" cemented her status as a charismatic presence on the silver screen. Despite her early retirement from acting post-marriage, Sonam's legacy in Indian cinema remains timeless.
In 1991, Sonam tied the knot with director Rajiv Rai, stepping away from the limelight to focus on her family. The couple welcomed a son, Gaurav, into their lives. However, their marriage faced challenges, leading to their divorce in 2016. Sonam's journey as a mother to a child diagnosed with autism exemplifies her resilience and unwavering dedication to her family.
After a hiatus of three decades, Sonam Khan made a triumphant return to the public eye in 2023 at the Jio World Plaza launch in Mumbai. Now residing in Mumbai with her son, Gaurav, Sonam is poised to rekindle her passion for acting and make a comeback to the silver screen, promising audiences a glimpse of her enduring talent and grace.
Sonam Khan's life story is a testament to the transformative power of cinema and the indomitable spirit of human resilience. From her humble beginnings to her meteoric rise in Bollywood, Sonam's journey is marked by moments of triumph, challenges, and unwavering devotion to her craft and family. As she embarks on a new chapter in her career, Sonam Khan continues to inspire generations with her timeless legacy.