Introduction:
In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian television, Chestha Bhagat has emerged not only as a talented actress but also as a versatile individual making strides in social advocacy. Born on October 3, 1990, in Delhi, Chestha’s journey began with a course in fashion design at INIFD, Delhi, paving the way for a career that transcended the boundaries of traditional entertainment.
Table of Contents
Early Career and Breakthrough:
Chestha made her television debut in 2009 with MTV Splitsvilla Season 2, a musical youth show that set the stage for her multifaceted career. As a contestant competing for love and money, she displayed an early flair for navigating the intricacies of reality television. Her subsequent role in the drama series Rehna Hai Teri Palkon Ki Chhaon Mein further showcased her budding talent.
However, it was her portrayal of Babita ‘Bobby’ Chaudhary in The Buddy Project, a comedy-drama series on Channel V India from 2012 to 2014, that became her breakthrough. As a tomboyish and adventurous character, Chestha’s performance earned her acclaim, solidifying her presence in the competitive world of Indian television.
Diverse Roles and Critical Acclaim:
Chestha’s career took a diverse trajectory as she ventured into crime and thriller shows such as Savdhaan India, Adaalat, and Control Room. Her role as Inspector Varsha Marathe in Control Room, aired on Dangal TV in 2022, garnered critical acclaim for her portrayal of a brave and honest police officer.
However, it was her role as Neha Dixit in the romantic drama series Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi that truly showcased her acting prowess. Airing on Sony Entertainment Television from 2016 to 2017, Chestha portrayed a strong and independent woman facing challenges in her married life. The audience and critics lauded her exceptional acting skills and screen presence. Her success in Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi led to her reprising the role in the third season of the show, streaming on SonyLIV in 2021.
Further adding to her repertoire, Chestha starred opposite Sanjay Kapoor in the TV series Dil Sambhal Jaa Zara, which aired on StarPlus in 2017. In this series, she played the role of Saloni, a character entangled in an extramarital affair, showcasing her ability to tackle complex roles with finesse.
Personal Life and Relationship with Arjun Aneja:
Chestha Bhagat’s personal life has been an integral part of her journey. She has been in a long-term relationship with actor Arjun Aneja, whom she met at a Diwali party in 2013. The couple, who have been dating for almost a decade, revealed their relationship for the first time in a 2023 interview. Their enduring connection was also showcased when they played on-screen siblings in the TV series Kuch Rang Pyar Ke Aise Bhi.
Chestha Bhagat in Temptation Island India:
She is also one of the contestants of Temptation Island India, a reality dating show where couples test their relationship by living with singles of the opposite gender. Chestha has entered the show with her boyfriend of 11 years, Arjun Aneja, who is also an actor. However, their relationship has been rocky, as Arjun has cheated on Chestha twice in the past, which is publicly known.
Chestha has said that she wants to give Arjun a last chance to prove his loyalty and love for her, while Arjun has said that he wants to make up for his mistakes and win back Chestha’s trust. On the finale night, they both officially broke up with each other and Chestha chose to go with Nikhil Mehta who was one the tempter in Temptation Island India.
Venturing into the Web Space:
In 2019, Chestha made her web series debut with Maaya Season 3, which premiered on JioCinema. Her role as Sonica Sangha depicted a woman trapped in a loveless marriage seeking solace in an online chat room, showcasing her ability to adapt to the evolving landscape of digital entertainment. She continued to make waves in the web series arena with her appearance in Pratiksha on Ullu in 2021, where she portrayed a woman blackmailed by her ex-boyfriend over a sex tape.
Cinematic Ventures and Milestones:
Beyond the small screen, Chestha Bhagat made her foray into Punjabi cinema with the film Ardab Mutiyaran in 2019. Her portrayal of Saroj Bansal, the sister-in-law of the female lead, earned her praise for her comic timing and dialogue delivery.
In 2023, Chestha took a bold step by participating in the reality and dating game show Temptation Island India, which premiered on JioCinema. Alongside her boyfriend, actor Arjun Aneja, Chestha embraced the challenges of the show, testing the strength of their relationship amidst tempting scenarios.
Passions Beyond Acting:
Away from the camera, Chestha Bhagat is a fitness enthusiast who maintains a regular workout routine. Her love for dance and travel adds to her dynamic personality. On her left wrist, she proudly bears a tattoo of a butterfly, symbolizing transformation and freedom.
Chestha Bhagat: The Social Advocate:
Beyond her acting accolades, Chestha Bhagat has emerged as a socially responsible and compassionate individual. Her advocacy extends to several causes, reflecting her commitment to making a positive impact on society.
Animal Welfare:
Chestha Bhagat is an animal lover who often posts pictures and videos of her pet dog on her Instagram account. She also supports animal welfare organizations like PETA India and World For All, and urges her fans to adopt animals instead of buying them. She has also participated in campaigns and events to raise awareness and funds for animal rights and protection. For instance, in 2021, she joined the ‘Pawsitive Vibes’ initiative by PETA India and JioSaavn, which aimed to promote the adoption of homeless animals and celebrate the joy of having a furry companion.
Mental Health Awareness:
Chestha Bhagat is also vocal about mental health issues and the importance of seeking professional help. She has shared her own struggles with anxiety and depression on social media, and how she overcame them with the support of her family, friends, and therapist. She has also encouraged her followers to talk about their feelings and emotions, and not to suffer in silence. She has also collaborated with mental health platforms like YourDOST and The Live Love Laugh Foundation, to spread awareness and provide resources for people who are dealing with mental health problems.
Women Empowerment:
Chestha Bhagat is a strong advocate of women empowerment and gender equality. She has been part of various campaigns and initiatives that aim to empower women and girls, and challenge the stereotypes and discrimination that they face in society. For example, in 2020, she participated in the ‘She Can Fly’ campaign by Smile Foundation, which focused on educating and empowering underprivileged girls in India. She also supported the ‘Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao’ movement by the Government of India, which seeks to improve the status of girls and women in the country.
Environmental Consciousness:
Chestha Bhagat is also conscious about the environment and the need to conserve it. She has been involved in various environmental causes and activities, such as planting trees, recycling waste, and promoting renewable energy. She has also endorsed eco-friendly products and brands, such as Organic India and Khadi Naturals, and encouraged her fans to switch to organic and natural alternatives. She has also expressed her concern over the issues of climate change, pollution, and deforestation, and urged her followers to take action and make a difference.
Conclusion:
Chestha Bhagat, a name synonymous with versatility and talent in the Indian television industry, has transcended the boundaries of her on-screen roles. Beyond the glitz and glamour, she stands as a beacon of inspiration, using her platform to advocate for causes close to her heart. From her remarkable performances in TV shows and web series to her passionate involvement in social and charity work, Chestha Bhagat is undeniably a true star, both on and off the screen. Her journey is a testament to the power of talent, resilience, and the impact one individual can make in shaping a better world.
Also read about “Gargee Nandy (Femina Miss India Meghalaya 2023): A Journey of Beauty, Determination, and Love” and “Chetna Pande: A Tale of Versatility, Resilience, and Authenticity in Indian Entertainment“.