Punjabi Cinema’s SRK: Actress Who Began With Dev Anand

When you think of Punjabi cinema today, one name shines brightly — Neeru Bajwa. Fondly known as the “Shah Rukh Khan of Punjabi Cinema,” Neeru has built an extraordinary career defined by passion, versatility, and stardom. But few know that this superstar’s journey began at just 18, under the direction of the legendary Dev Anand himself.

The Early Beginningv Anand

A Dream Start with De

Neeru Bajwa’s story started like a film script. Born in Vancouver, Canada, she was always drawn to the glamour and emotion of Indian films. As a teenager, she dreamed of acting in Bollywood — and destiny soon opened the perfect door.

At the young age of 18, Neeru was handpicked by veteran actor and filmmaker Dev Anand to star in his 1998 movie “Main Solah Baras Ki.” The film revolved around youth, ambition, and dreams — themes that mirrored Neeru’s own journey.

Although the film didn’t perform well at the box office, it gave Neeru her first experience in the Indian film industry. Working with a legend like Dev Anand taught her discipline, dedication, and the art of camera performance — lessons that would shape her entire career.

Struggles Before Stardom

After her Bollywood debut, Neeru’s path wasn’t easy. Roles were limited, and she faced the typical challenges that many young outsiders face in Mumbai. Despite her talent and confidence, Bollywood’s competitive environment didn’t immediately embrace her.

Rather than giving up, Neeru took a bold step. She shifted her focus toward television, appearing in popular Hindi serials like Hari Mirchi Lal Mirchi, Astitva – Ek Prem Kahani, and Jeet.

Television gave her recognition and experience — and soon, she realized that her true calling lay elsewhere: the Punjabi film industry.

The Turning Point

Stepping into Punjabi Cinema

In the early 2000s, Punjabi cinema was growing but still searching for strong female leads who could blend beauty, charisma, and acting skill. Neeru entered this world with her first major Punjabi film, “Asa Nu Maan Watna Da” (2004), opposite Harbhajan Mann.

The film was a turning point. It connected with audiences through its emotional story about overseas Punjabis and their love for their homeland. Neeru’s performance was praised for its authenticity — she wasn’t just acting; she was living the role.

From that moment, Neeru Bajwa became a name to watch in Punjabi films.

Rise to Stardom

Hit After Hit

The next few years transformed Neeru into the queen of Punjabi cinema. She delivered back-to-back hits, winning hearts with her expressive acting and natural charm.

Some of her most successful films include:

• “Mel Karade Rabba” (2010)
• “Jatt and Juliet” (2012)
• “Jatt and Juliet 2” (2013)
• “Naughty Jatts” (2013)
• “Shadaa” (2019)
• “Beautiful Billo” (2022)

Her chemistry with co-star Diljit Dosanjh became legendary. Together, they gave Punjabi cinema some of its biggest blockbusters. Fans loved their romantic banter, comic timing, and emotional connection — much like the magic that Shah Rukh Khan created in Bollywood.

This is why many fans and critics started calling Neeru “the Shah Rukh Khan of Punjabi Cinema.” Like SRK, she combined emotion, elegance, and charm — ruling hearts with grace.

Beyond Acting

The Producer, Director & Entrepreneur

Neeru didn’t stop at acting. With time, she expanded her horizons. She founded her own production house, Neeru Bajwa Entertainment, to promote regional stories and empower new talent.

In 2017, she even stepped into direction with the film “Sargi,” which starred her real-life sister Rubina Bajwa. The movie received positive feedback for its heartwarming storytelling and direction.

As a producer, Neeru has worked on projects that highlight Punjabi culture, strong women, and real emotions. She believes in giving a platform to creative storytellers — especially women — who want to break stereotypes.

The Title

‘Shah Rukh Khan of Punjabi Cinema’

The title might sound surprising at first — after all, SRK is known as Bollywood’s King of Romance. But Neeru earned this comparison through her consistency, her massive fan following, and her ability to draw audiences with emotion and charisma.

She is among the highest-paid actresses in the Punjabi film industry, often leading films that earn crores at the box office. Like Shah Rukh Khan, she is known not just for her looks, but for her ability to make audiences feel love, pain, joy, and nostalgia.

Her emotional expressions, effortless romantic scenes, and lively personality on-screen make her one of the most bankable and loved stars in regional cinema.

Life Beyond the Screen

Neeru Bajwa is not just a successful actress — she is also a family-oriented person. Married to Harry Jawandha, a businessman, she often shares glimpses of her personal life on social media. The couple has daughters, and Neeru frequently speaks about balancing motherhood and work.

Her Instagram feed is filled with positivity, laughter, and behind-the-scenes moments that show her fun-loving side. Despite fame, she remains grounded and connected to her Punjabi roots.

Awards and Recognition

Over the years, Neeru has won numerous awards for her performances, including PTC Punjabi Film Awards for Best Actress and Best Jodi (with Diljit Dosanjh). Critics admire her for maintaining a strong presence in an industry that is often dominated by male actors.

Her contribution to Punjabi cinema has not only elevated the industry’s standards but also inspired many young women to pursue acting careers in regional cinema.

Neeru Bajwa’s Impact on Punjabi Cinema

Before Neeru, Punjabi films often focused mainly on male leads. Female characters were supportive, not central. But Neeru changed that narrative.

She brought a balance — combining glamour with meaningful roles. Her characters are often confident, bold, and emotional — representing modern Punjabi women who are independent yet rooted in tradition.

Her influence has encouraged filmmakers to write stronger roles for women and tell stories from different perspectives.

Future Projects and Legacy

Even after two decades in the industry, Neeru shows no signs of slowing down. She continues to experiment with genres — from romantic comedies to emotional dramas — and collaborates with young directors and actors.

Her recent films like Kali Jotta (2023) and Buhe Bariyan (2023) have proven that she’s still the heartbeat of Punjabi cinema. She continues to set benchmarks for performance, professionalism, and popularity.

Neeru Bajwa’s journey — from a teenage girl working with Dev Anand to becoming Punjabi cinema’s most loved star — is nothing short of inspiring.