Introduction
Born on December 14, 1984, in the culturally rich city of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, Divyanka Tripathi has carved a niche for herself in the Indian television industry. Hailing from a Hindu family, she shares her life with an elder sister, Priyanka, and a younger brother, Aishwarya. Her father, Narendra Tripathi, serves as a pharmacist, while her mother, Neelam Tripathi, is a dedicated homemaker. Little did the world know that this unassuming girl from Bhopal would go on to become one of the most beloved and accomplished actresses on the small screen.
Table of Contents
Early Years and Education
Divyanka Tripathi’s journey into the world of entertainment wasn’t a straightforward one. Growing up, she exhibited a keen interest in acting and performing arts. Her love for drama, plays, and telefilms led her to explore opportunities early on. While still in school at Carmel Convent School, Bhopal, Divyanka even worked as an anchor on All India Radio, giving a glimpse of her versatile talent.
After completing her schooling, Divyanka Tripathi pursued her higher education at Sarojini Naidu Govt. Girls P.G. (Auto.) College, Bhopal. Not limiting herself to the conventional path, she added a unique feather to her cap by completing a mountaineering course from the Nehru Institute of Mountaineering in Uttarkashi.
A Star in the Making
Divyanka Tripathi’s tryst with the limelight began with beauty pageants. In 2003, she participated in Pantene Zee Teen Queen and clinched the title of Miss Beautiful Skin. The following year, she entered India’s Best Cinestars Ki Khoj, making it to the top 8 from the Bhopal zone. Although she faced a setback, Divyanka’s resilience pushed her to contest again from the Indore zone, securing the runner-up position.
In 2005, Divyanka Tripathi was crowned Miss Bhopal, solidifying her presence in the world of beauty and grace. However, Divyanka wasn’t content with just pageants; she aspired for a career in the entertainment industry.
Television Breakthrough
Divyanka Tripathi’s journey in front of the camera began with a telefilm for Doordarshan, and soon after, she found herself hosting the show “Akash Vani.” The turning point came in 2006 when Divyanka landed the lead role in Zee TV’s drama fiction, “Banoo Main Teri Dulhann.” Playing the dual characters of Vidya and Divya, she captivated the audience and garnered widespread recognition. Her on-screen chemistry with Sharad Malhotra further elevated her popularity.
The accolades poured in as Divyanka Tripathi received the Indian Television Academy Award for Best Actress in Drama Category and the Indian Telly Award for Fresh New Face. “Banoo Main Teri Dulhann” ran successfully for three years, concluding in 2009. During this period, Divyanka also showcased her culinary skills by participating in Zee TV’s “Khana Khazana.”
Reality Shows and Diversification
Embracing versatility, Divyanka Tripathi stepped into the realm of reality shows. In 2007, she participated in Sahara One’s “Jjhoom India” and, in 2008, showcased her dancing prowess in Imagine TV’s “Nachle Ve with Saroj Khan.” Her journey in the world of reality television continued with hosting 9X’s “Jalwa Four 2 Ka 1” and featuring in the second season of Star Plus’s horror thriller “Ssshhhh…Phir Koi Hai” in 2009.
Diversifying her roles, Divyanka Tripathi portrayed the character of Rashmi Sharma, a housewife, in SAB TV’s comedy drama “Mrs. & Mr. Sharma Allahabadwale” in 2010. Her commitment to versatility was evident in 2011 when she participated in Imagine TV’s “Zor Ka Jhatka: Total Wipeout.” This was followed by her lead role in SAB TV’s “Chintu Chinki Aur Ek Badi Si Love Story” as Suman and an episodic appearance in “Adaalat.”
In 2012, she featured in Star Plus’s “Teri Meri Love Stories” opposite Iqbal Khan, showcasing her ability to effortlessly essay diverse characters.
Yeh Hai Mohabbatein and Stardom
In 2013, Divyanka Tripathi reached the peak of her career by landing the role of Dr. Ishita Iyer Bhalla in the TV show “Yeh Hai Mohabbatein” on Star Plus. She starred alongside Karan Patel in the series. The show, based on Manju Kapur’s novel Custody, became a massive hit, making her a household name. Portraying a Tamil dentist who marries a Punjabi businessman to take care of his daughter, Divyanka received numerous awards, including the Gold Award for Boroplus Face of the Year, the Asian Viewers Television Award for Female Actor Of The Year, and the Indian Television Academy Award for Best Actress Jury.
“Yeh Hai Mohabbatein” ran for a successful six years, concluding in 2019. The character Ishita, affectionately known as Ishi Maa, resonated deeply with the audience, solidifying Divyanka’s position as a leading actress in the television industry.
Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi 11 and Nach Baliye 8
In 2017, Divyanka Tripathi ventured into the world of dance reality shows by participating in “Nach Baliye 8” alongside her husband, Vivek Dahiya. The couple’s chemistry and exceptional performances led them to emerge victorious, clinching the trophy and a cash prize of Rs. 35 lakhs.
Proving her mettle in a different arena, Divyanka Tripathi faced her fears in 2021 by participating in “Fear Factor: Khatron Ke Khiladi 11.” Her courage and determination earned her praise from host Rohit Shetty and fellow contestants. Making it to the finale, she finished as the runner-up, showcasing her ability to excel beyond the realms of acting.
Personal Life and Controversies
Divyanka Tripathi’s personal life has been a subject of interest for her fans. After a nine-year relationship with co-star Sharad Malhotra, the couple parted ways in 2015 due to compatibility issues. Fate, however, had other plans for Divyanka as she found love on the sets of “Yeh Hai Mohabbatein” with co-star Vivek Dahiya. The couple got engaged in January 2016 and tied the knot on July 8, 2016, in Bhopal. Their grand wedding ceremony and receptions in Chandigarh and Mumbai marked the beginning of a blissful journey together. Divyanka and Vivek are celebrated as one of the most loved couples in the television industry.
While her personal life brought joy, Divyanka Tripathi’s professional life wasn’t without its share of controversies. In one instance, an unknown person misbehaved with her on the sets of “Yeh Hai Mohabbatein,” prompting her co-stars Karan and Ali to intervene and protect her. In 2017, she faced criticism for allegedly showing a fake injury during “Nach Baliye 8,” a claim she refuted through a video clarifying the authenticity of her injury.
Awards and Achievements of Divyanka Tripathi
Divyanka Tripathi’s talent and contributions to the television industry have been acknowledged through numerous awards and accolades. she has garnered numerous accolades throughout their career, with some of the notable ones including the Indian Television Academy Award for Best Actress in the Drama Category in 2007 and 2018, the Indian Telly Award for Fresh New Face in 2007, the Gold Award for Emami Golden Skin in 2007, and the Gold Award for Best Actress in a Lead Role in 2008.
Additionally, they received the Gold Award for Boroplus Face of the Year in 2014, the Asian Viewers Television Award for Female Actor Of The Year in 2015, and the Gold Award for Most Celebrated Actor in 2018. Their achievements extend to the Lions Gold Award for Best Actress in 2019, securing the winner’s title in Nach Baliye 8 in 2017, and in 2021 clinching the runner-up position in Khatron Ke Khiladi 11.
A Beacon of Inspiration
Divyanka Tripathi transcends the boundaries of being just a television actress. Her journey, marked by determination, versatility, and resilience, serves as an inspiration to many aspiring artists. From her humble beginnings in Bhopal to becoming a household name across the nation, Divyanka’s story is a testament to the possibilities that unfold when talent meets opportunity.
Beyond the glamour of the screen, Divyanka has emerged as a socially responsible individual. Her commitment to animal rights, advocacy for women empowerment, and active involvement in charitable causes showcase a side of her that goes beyond the scripted narratives. She stands as a beacon of positivity, encouraging her fans to embrace kindness, compassion, and a sense of responsibility towards the world.
Conclusion
Divyanka Tripathi’s journey is not just a tale of professional success but a saga of personal growth, resilience, and the enduring spirit of a woman who continues to shine, both on and off the screen. As she gracefully navigates the realms of entertainment, philanthropy, and personal relationships, Divyanka remains a symbol of inspiration for millions, proving that a true diva is one who not only dazzles under the spotlight but also radiates light into the lives of others.
Also read about “Mihika Verma (Miss International India 2004): Beauty with a Purpose“.