Jhansi, a prominent figure in Telugu cinema and television, is not just an anchor but also a talented actress, director, and playwright. Her multifaceted career reflects her dedication and passion.
Wiki/Biography
Born as Jhansi Laxmi in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, she completed her schooling at Kendriya Vidyalaya No. 1, Golconda. She further enhanced her knowledge with an online certification course in Food and Health Connection from American Online Naturopathy, demonstrating her commitment to holistic well-being.
Physical Appearance
• Height (approx.): 5′ 6″
• Eye Colour: Black
• Hair Colour: Black
Family, Caste & Husband
Jhansi comes from a Hindu family. Her mother, Sharada, was a producer at All India Radio, showcasing a family legacy in media. She was married to actor Jogi Naidu, but they divorced in 2014. She has a daughter named Dhanya.
Career
As a Host
Jhansi’s television career began with “Talk of the Town” on Gemini TV, a show she hosted for nearly a decade (1997-2007). Her hosting credits include popular shows like “Black,” “Ko ante Koti,” “Naveena,” “ATM,” “Pellipustakam,” and “Sunday Sandadi.” She notably hosted all three seasons of “Black,” India’s first reality show for the visually impaired.
Acting Career
Her acting debut was in the 1997 Telugu film “Aahvanam.” She’s since appeared in pivotal roles in numerous films, including “Jayam Manadera” (2000), “Raa,” “Family Circus” (2001), “Yagnam” (2004), “Bhadra” (2005), “Sri Krishna” (2006), “Ashta Chamma-Heroine Aunt” (2008), “Racha” (2012), “Saakshyam” (2018), “Maharshi” (2019), and “Kousalya Krishnamurthy” (2019).
Other Works
Beyond acting and hosting, Jhansi has also ventured into theatre. She debuted as a director and playwright with “Purusha Sooktam” at Ravindra Bharati in 2019. She’s also a businesswoman, running “Uzuri-Wellness with Jhansi,” offering a 21-day wellness program. “Uzuri” means “health with beauty” in Swahili.
Controversy
A lip-lock scene with Rakul Preet Singh in “Manmadhudu 2” (2019) sparked criticism online, with some viewers expressing disapproval and using the hashtag “#DeeplyDisturbing.”
Awards & Honours
Jhansi has received numerous awards, including:
Award | Category | Film/Show | Year |
---|---|---|---|
Nandi Award (Films) | Best Supporting Actress | Thodu | 1997 |
Nandi Award (Films) | Best Supporting Actress | Jayam Manadera | 2003 |
Nandi Award (Films) | Best Comedian | Tulasi | 2007 |
Nandi Award (Films) | Best Comedian | Simha | 2010 |
Nandi Award (Television) | Best Actress | Sarada | 2000 |
Nandi Award (Television) | Best Anchor | Pelli Pustakam | 2006 |
She’s also received many other accolades for her work as an anchor and actress.
Favourite Things
• Food: Pongal with Flaxseed Karappodi
• Actor: Tanikella Bharani
• Actress: Vijaya Nirmala
• Poet: Maya Angelou
• Books: “The Mother” by Maxim Gorky, “Roots: The Saga of an American Family” by Alex Haley
Facts/Trivia
• Enjoys reading and writing.
• Speaks six Telugu dialects, specializing in Mandalikam.
• Is a fitness enthusiast, starting her day with herbal tea and yoga.
• Overcame Thoracic outlet syndrome, attributing her recovery to dietary changes.
• Is a trained Veena player.
• Was a national-level player in volleyball, discus, and javelin throw.
• Actively involved in philanthropy, working with organizations like UNICEF, LEPRA India, and Aarambh Association, advocating for various social causes.