Did You Know? DDLJ’s Chutki, Played by Pooja Ruparel, Is Actually Sonakshi Sinha’s Cousin!

Pooja Ruparel, fondly remembered as Chutki from Aditya Chopra’s timeless classic Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge (DDLJ), has recently made headlines as the Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol starrer completed 30 glorious years since its release. While the film continues to hold a special place in Bollywood history, few people know that Pooja Ruparel, who played Kajol’s younger sister, is actually Sonakshi Sinha’s cousin. In a recent interview, she opened up about her family connection, her big break in Bollywood, and how fate played a key role in shaping her career.

Pooja Ruparel’s Surprising Connection With Sonakshi Sinha

In her candid interview, Pooja revealed that she shares a close bond with actress Sonakshi Sinha and her family. Her aunt is Poonam Sinha, Sonakshi’s mother and wife of veteran actor Shatrughan Sinha.

Interestingly, Pooja also shared that during the filming of DDLJ, she wore one of Poonam Sinha’s dresses for a key scene in the movie.

While flipping through the film stills, Pooja recalled the moment with nostalgia. “The outfit I wore during Kajol’s engagement scene with Parmeet Sethi actually belonged to Poonam Sinha. My mother had carried a few options for me, but what they had planned initially didn’t work out. So my mom asked if I could wear this outfit, and everyone instantly agreed—it looked perfect. So, I wore my aunt’s dress for the shoot. Thank you, my aunt,” she said with a smile.

Her First Break Had a Poonam Sinha Connection

Pooja Ruparel revealed that her first big break in films came through a family connection—and destiny played its part beautifully. Sharing the story behind how she got discovered, Pooja said, “My first break did happen because of that, but not in a direct way. My aunt, Poonam Sinha, still loves and pampers me a lot. Once, during a Diwali funfair, I had performed a dance, and my mother recorded it on a VHS tape.”

She continued, “One day, while there was interior designing work happening at my aunt’s place, Rakesh Roshan’s wife, Pinky Roshan, came over to visit. She happened to see the VHS tape and got curious about me. They were looking for a child actress for a film and asked my aunt for my contact details. Soon, I got a call, and that’s how it all started. I didn’t have to chase opportunities—they came to me.”

Destiny Led Her to Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge

Speaking about how she landed her iconic role in DDLJ, Pooja said she strongly believes in destiny. Quoting filmmaker Imtiaz Ali, she added, “It’s like what Imtiaz Ali says in one of his films—‘What you are seeking is seeking you.’”

According to her, things just fell into place naturally. “Eventually, Yash Raj Films took my number from Rakesh ji, and soon I was called in. There weren’t many auditions or nervous waiting periods. It was simple—they called me, and soon I was on set shooting for DDLJ. If things are meant to happen, they do. But if they aren’t, no matter how hard you try, it won’t work out,” Pooja explained.

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Her portrayal of Chutki in the film made her a familiar face and added to the film’s charm. As DDLJ became a landmark in Indian cinema, so did the memory of the cheerful and loving younger sister who brought light-heartedness to the story.

Pooja Ruparel’s Journey in Bollywood

Pooja Ruparel began her acting career as a child artist in 1993 with King Uncle, starring Jackie Shroff and Shah Rukh Khan. Her natural acting skills and expressive personality soon caught the attention of filmmakers. However, it was Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge that made her a household name.

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After DDLJ, Pooja continued to explore different genres in both films and television. She appeared in movies like Amit Sahni Ki List, X: Past Is Present, and the popular TV show 24 (Indian TV Series) alongside Anil Kapoor. She also worked in the hit comedy show Zabaan Sambhalke.

In addition to acting, Pooja has made a name for herself as a stand-up comedian. Her witty humor and stage presence have earned her appreciation in the comedy circuit, showcasing her versatility as a performer.

Belief in Hard Work and Destiny

Even after years in the industry, Pooja remains humble and grateful for every opportunity that has come her way. She believes that while hard work is essential, destiny plays an equally powerful role. Her journey—from being spotted on a VHS tape to becoming a part of India’s most iconic romantic film—perfectly reflects that belief.

As DDLJ continues to be celebrated across generations, fans are delighted to rediscover the lesser-known stories behind its cast. And Pooja Ruparel’s heartwarming journey proves that sometimes, fate truly has a beautiful script of its own.