Rashami Desai

Introduction

Rashami Desai (born Shivani Desai on February 13, 1986) is an Indian television and film actress primarily known for her work in Hindi TV serials.

Early Life & Background

• She was born in Nagaon, Assam, India, though her family is of Gujarati origin.

• She spent her formative years in Mumbai, where she did her schooling.

• For her education, she earned a diploma in Tours & Travel from Narsee Monjee College of Commerce & Economics, Mumbai.

• She is also trained in classical dance forms (Bharatnatyam & Kathak).

Career & Major Works

Film & Early Acting

• Rashami’s early acting included regional and small film roles.

• She made her Bollywood debut with the film Yeh Lamhe Judaai Ke (2004).

• She also acted in Bhojpuri, Assamese, and Gujarati films.

Television & Breakthrough

• Her Hindi television debut was in the mythological serial Raavan (2006) on Zee TV, where she played Mandodari.

• In 2008 she appeared in Pari Hoon Main in a dual role.

• Her big breakthrough came with Uttaran (2009–2014) on Colors TV, where she portrayed Tapasya Thakur. This role brought her widespread recognition and multiple awards.

• Later, she starred in Dil Se Dil Tak (2017–2018) as Shorvari Bhanushali.

• She has also appeared in shows like Naagin seasons, and took part in several Indian reality shows (Bigg Boss 13, Bigg Boss 15, Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, etc.).

Web / Digital & Recent Work

• Rashami made her digital/web debut with the crime drama series Tandoor, where she played Palak Sahni.

• She has also been part of music videos and short films (for instance, Tamas).

• In 2024, she appeared in the Gujarati film Mom Tane Nai Samjay.

Personal Life & Challenges

• She married her Uttaran co-star Nandish Sandhu on 12 February 2011.

• The couple separated, and divorce was finalized in March 2016.

• She later had a relationship with Arhaan Khan, which attracted public attention during Bigg Boss.

• Rashami has publicly shared hardships and how she overcame them (financial struggles, health, etc.). (General from public interviews)

Style, Strengths & Public Persona

• She is known for strong, often grey or challenging roles, rather than only playing purely “good” characters.

• She is vocal and outspoken about her views and often defends her privacy and dignity in media. (e.g., she recently reprimanded paparazzi for recording a singer without consent)

• Her image combines glamour with resilience; she often participates in philanthropic and social causes (e.g. walking fashion shows for NGOs)

• She embraces cultural roots: for instance, she recently reaffirmed her affection for traditional Gujarati attire (gamthi chaniya cholis).

Lessons & Takeaways

• Versatility matters: Rashami has moved across genres — mythological drama, soap operas, supernatural shows, reality TV, web series.

• Embrace complexity: Playing nuanced/negative characters has helped her stand out.

• Speak up for dignity: She has shown willingness to defend privacy, respect, and boundaries publicly.

• Adapt with changing media: Transitioning from television to web/digital platforms is important in today’s media landscape.