Lisa Ray, a celebrated Canadian-Indian actress, model, writer, and social activist, has captivated audiences with her talent and inspiring journey. This comprehensive biography delves into her life, career, and impactful contributions.
Wiki/Biography
Born as Lisa Rani Ray on April 4, 1972, in Toronto, Canada, Lisa’s zodiac sign is Aries. Her childhood was partly spent in Kolkata, India, adding a unique blend of cultures to her upbringing. Her education took her through several Toronto schools: Etobicoke Collegiate Institute, Richview Collegiate Institute, and Silverthorn Collegiate Institute. Initially pursuing journalism after modeling in India, she later changed course due to family circumstances. She went on to excel in drama, studying at prestigious institutions including the Central School of Speech and Drama (London), London Centre for Theatre Studies, Desmond Jones School of Physical Theatre, and the British American Drama Academy (BADA). She ultimately earned a postgraduate degree in acting from the Academy of Live and Recorded Arts (ALRA).
Physical Appearance
Lisa Ray possesses striking features:
- Height: Approximately 5’6″
- Weight: Approximately 60 kg
- Figure Measurements: Approximately 36-27-35
- Eye Colour: Hazel Green
- Hair Colour: Dark Brown
Family, Caste & Husband
Lisa’s father, L. K. Dutta, is of Bengali descent, and her mother, Jennifer Dutta, is Polish. This diverse heritage is a significant part of her identity. She is married to Jason Dehni, a management consultant. The couple welcomed twin daughters, Sufi and Soleil, via surrogacy in Tbilisi, Georgia, in June 2018.
Career
Lisa’s career began as a model in the 1990s. Her appearance in a Bombay Dyeing advertisement and on the cover of Glad Rags launched her into the spotlight, leading to numerous modeling opportunities. She also ventured into television, hosting “Show Biz” on Star Movies alongside Kelly Dorji and appearing in Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s music video for “Aafreen Aafreen”.
Her Bollywood debut came in 2001 with “Kasoor,” followed by roles in various Indian and international films, including the Indo-Canadian romantic comedy “Bollywood/Hollywood” (2002) and the Oscar-nominated “Water” (2005). “Water” faced significant controversies, highlighting issues around its content and filming location. Her filmography extends to Canadian films like “All Hat” (2007) and “A Stone’s Throw” (2006), a guest appearance on the American TV series “Psych,” and hosting roles on “Top Chef Canada”. She also made regional film debuts in Tamil (“Nethaji,” 1996), Telugu (“Takkari Donga,” 2002), and Kannada (“Yuvaraja,” 2004).
Controversies
Lisa’s career has not been without its share of controversies. Rumors of a relationship with Sanjay Dutt led her to temporarily leave India. Later, speculation surrounding her departure from the film “Dus” (2005) prompted further media attention. Years later, she openly discussed these experiences, emphasizing her growth and commitment to not tolerating any form of abuse.
Awards
Lisa Ray’s accomplishments have been recognized through numerous awards:
Award | Year | Description |
---|---|---|
Star of the Future | 2002 | Toronto International Film Festival |
Best Actress in a Canadian film (for Water) | N/A | Vancouver Critics Circle |
Special Achievement Award | 2011 | Miss India-Canada |
Diamond Jubilee Medal | 2013 | N/A |
Anokhi Prestige award | 2013 | Canadian Actor of the Decade (for “Water”) |
Medscape award | 2015 | Most Inspirational Fighter of India |
Favourite Things
Here are some of Lisa Ray’s preferences:
- Colour: Yellow
- Food: Pecan Pie, Bumbleberry Pie, Pizza, California roll, Knafeh
- Beverages: Smoothies, Juices
- Directors: Federico Fellini, Satyajit Ray
Facts
Lisa’s ancestral home is in Shyambazar, West Bengal. She shared a close bond with her maternal grandmother, speaking Polish with her. Her academic abilities allowed her to complete five years of high school in four. A Times of India poll named her the “ninth most beautiful woman of the millennium.” Divya Dutta dubbed her voice in the film “Kasoor.” After her mother’s passing in 2008, she returned to Toronto. Her public announcement of her multiple myeloma diagnosis at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2009, while promoting “Cooking with Stella,” marked a significant moment in her life and career. She bravely chronicled her cancer journey in her blog, “Yellow Diaries,” inspiring many. She received a stem cell transplant in 2009, and while declared cancer-free in 2010, she continues to advocate for cancer awareness and women’s empowerment. A wellness enthusiast, she practices yoga and maintains a strict vegetarian diet, avoiding dairy products.
“`