“People like to watch downtrodden women who are suffering and trying to find their way up. I don't know why we have gone backwards.”

Indian actress, fashion designer, and television presenter

Mandira Bedi is an Indian actress, fashion designer, and television presenter. She became widely known for playing the title role in the 1994 television series Shanti, broadcast on Doordarshan. She later worked in Hindi television and, in 2019, appeared in the film Saaho in a negative role. Bedi has also hosted major cricket events, including the ICC Cricket World Cups in 2003 and 2007, the Champions Trophies in 2004 and 2006, and the Indian Premier League for Sony Max. Beyond acting and presenting, she entered fashion design with a saree collection at Lakme Fashion Week 2014 and launched her signature sari store in 2013. She has also promoted faux leather for PETA.