The 70th annual National Film Awards, celebrating films released in 2022, were announced on Friday, August 16. In a remarkable turn of events, Nithya Menen and Manasi Parekh shared the prestigious Best Actress in a Leading Role award in the Feature Films category. Nithya was recognized for her performance in the Tamil film ‘Thiruchitrambalam’, while Manasi was honored for her role in the Gujarati film ‘Kutch Express’.
‘Kutch Express’, released on January 6, 2022, features a stellar cast including Ratna Pathak Shah and Darsheel Safary. Manasi Parekh not only played the lead role but also took on the role of producer for the film. The story centers on a woman’s journey to empowerment after discovering her husband’s infidelity.
Early Life and Education
Manasi Parekh was born on July 10, 1986, in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, into a culturally rich and supportive family. Growing up in an environment that appreciated the arts, Manasi was naturally drawn to music and acting from a young age. She was encouraged by her family to pursue her creative passions, which led her to develop a deep interest in classical music and theater. This early exposure to the performing arts played a significant role in shaping her career choices later in life.
Manasi attended St. Xavier’s College in Mumbai, one of the city’s most prestigious institutions, where she studied English Literature. Her time at St. Xavier’s was instrumental in refining her artistic talents, as the college provided a nurturing environment for budding artists. Here, she actively participated in various cultural events, honing her skills in acting, singing, and stage performance.
Early Career and Breakthrough in Television
Manasi Parekh’s foray into the entertainment industry began with television, a medium that offered her the platform to showcase her diverse talents. She first appeared in supporting roles in various TV shows, gaining experience and visibility. Her early work included shows like ‘Kitni Mast Hai Zindagi’ (2004) and ‘Kasautii Zindagii Kay’ (2005), where she played smaller but significant roles.
Her breakthrough came in 2005 with the television show ‘India Calling’, where she played the lead role of Chandini. The show was a hit, and Manasi’s portrayal of the character resonated with the audience, marking her as a promising new face in the Indian television industry. This success opened up more opportunities, allowing her to take on varied roles that showcased her range as an actress.
Manasi’s defining moment on television came with the show ‘Gulaal’ (2010-2011), where she played the titular role. The series was set against the backdrop of rural Gujarat and revolved around the life of a strong-willed woman named Gulaal. Manasi’s performance was widely acclaimed for its depth and authenticity, earning her critical praise and a devoted fan following. The role established her as one of the leading actresses on Indian television.
Musical Journey and Reality TV Success
Apart from acting, Manasi Parekh is also a trained classical singer, a talent that she has nurtured alongside her acting career. Her singing prowess was brought to the forefront when she participated in the reality singing competition Star Ya Rockstar in 2011. Competing against other television celebrities, Manasi’s melodious voice and versatile performances won her the title, further solidifying her reputation as a multi-talented artist.
Her success in the music reality show brought her closer to her roots in music, leading her to explore opportunities in the music industry. Manasi continued to perform at various cultural and musical events, showcasing her ability to blend her acting and singing talents seamlessly.
Film Career and Transition to Cinema
While television remained her primary platform, Manasi Parekh also ventured into films, seeking to expand her artistic horizons. She made her film debut with the 2011 movie ‘Yeh Kaisi Life’, where she played a significant role. Although the film did not achieve mainstream success, it was an important step in her transition from television to cinema.
Manasi’s most notable film appearance came in 2019 with the blockbuster ‘Uri: The Surgical Strike’. Although her role in the film was brief, her performance was impactful, adding depth to the narrative of one of Bollywood’s most successful military dramas. Her work in ‘Uri’ introduced her to a broader audience, further diversifying her portfolio as an actress.
Digital Media and Production Ventures
In recent years, Manasi Parekh has embraced the digital revolution, making her mark in the growing world of web series and online content. One of her most significant ventures in this space was the web series ‘Do Not Disturb’ (2019), which she co-produced and starred in. The series, which explores the humorous and relatable dynamics of a married couple, was well-received for its engaging storytelling and strong performances. This project highlighted Manasi’s ability not only as an actress but also as a producer with a keen eye for quality content.
Her foray into production has been driven by a desire to tell meaningful stories that resonate with audiences on a personal level. Manasi’s work behind the scenes reflects her commitment to exploring new creative avenues and pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling.
Personal Life
Manasi Parekh is married to Parthiv Gohil, a renowned Gujarati singer and musician. The couple shares a deep bond, rooted in their mutual love for music and the arts. They are often seen collaborating on various projects, blending their talents to create memorable performances. The couple has a daughter, Nirvi, born in 2016, and Manasi often shares glimpses of her family life on social media, where she enjoys a significant following.
Manasi’s personal life has been a source of inspiration for her fans, as she balances her professional commitments with her roles as a wife and mother. Her journey is a testament to her ability to navigate the demands of the entertainment industry while maintaining a fulfilling personal life.
Social Media and Public Image
Manasi Parekh is highly active on social media, where she engages with her fans and shares insights into her life and work. Her presence on platforms like Instagram and Twitter has made her a popular figure, particularly among younger audiences who admire her for her authenticity and relatable content. She uses her platform to promote her projects, share her musical performances, and connect with her audience on a more personal level.
Her social media content often reflects her positive outlook on life, her love for music, and her commitment to her craft. Manasi’s public image is that of a warm, down-to-earth personality, who is passionate about her work and dedicated to her family.
Legacy and Impact
Throughout her career, Manasi Parekh has made a significant impact on the Indian entertainment industry. Her versatility as an actress and singer, combined with her ventures into production, has made her a respected figure in both television and film. She is admired for her ability to take on diverse roles and her dedication to continuously evolving as an artist.
Manasi’s journey from a television actress to a successful producer and digital content creator reflects her adaptability and forward-thinking approach. She has carved out a unique space for herself in the industry, where she continues to influence and inspire aspiring actors and musicians.
In an exclusive interview with News18 Showsha last year, Manasi emphasized the importance of bringing Gujarati cinema into the mainstream and expanding its reach to a broader audience, “I think to gain more popularity, Gujarati cinema should explore so many more concepts and so many more stories. There are incredible geographical locations in Gujarat. For example, when we shot Kutch Express in Kutch, we tried to show Kutch as it has never been shown before in any Hindi or Gujarati film. Similarly, people have a very stereotypical notion of what Gujarati movies are or what Gujarati people are like. I think our movies should try to break those stereotypes and should try to bring out those stories to the mainstream for us to reach a wider audience,” she said.
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