Sonali Bendre still gets thrilled talking about the day she welcomed Michael Jackson to India. It was 1996, and the King of Pop was in Mumbai for his ‘History World Tour’. Sonali, who was a rising star in Bollywood back then, was chosen to receive Jackson at the airport. She wore a traditional nine-yard saree and performed an ‘aarti’ to welcome him.
This meeting was more than just a celebrity encounter – it was a fascinating blend of Indian culture and Western pop. Jackson’s concert in Mumbai had left thousands of fans mesmerized, and the event still holds a special place in the hearts of music enthusiasts.
Sonali recalled that Raj Thackeray’s wife, Sharmila, had approached her to be a part of this special occasion. Sonali had one condition, though – she wanted the best tickets to the show so she could watch it with her friends and sister. She remembered saying, “If I get good tickets, I’ll do it.” And she did, because she and her friends were super excited to see the show.
That year was significant for Sonali, too. She had starred in hit films like ‘Diljale’, ‘Sapoot’, and ‘Rakshak’, cementing her position as a rising star in the industry. Her simple demeanor and powerful acting had won over audiences, making her a household name.
In an interview with ANI, Sonali shared this nostalgic story, giving a glimpse into a moment that was both historic and unforgettable. She had also spoken about her experiences working with Salman Khan and her battle with cancer, among other topics.
Sonali’s fans still cherish her performances in films and her down-to-earth personality. Her story about meeting Michael Jackson is a testament to the power of music and culture to bring people together, creating memories that last a lifetime.