Harshaali Malhotra, the adorable child actress who stole hearts as Munni in Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015), is making a powerful comeback to the big screen. After a decade-long hiatus, the 17-year-old actress is set to star in Akhanda 2: Thaandavam alongside Telugu superstar Nandamuri Balakrishna.
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Harshaali Malhotra: Quick Profile
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Harshaali Malhotra |
| Date of Birth | June 3, 2008 |
| Age | 17 years (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Mumbai, Maharashtra |
| Debut Film | Bajrangi Bhaijaan (2015) |
| Upcoming Movie | Akhanda 2: Thaandavam (September 25, 2025) |
| Character Name | Janani |
| Industry | Bollywood & Telugu Cinema |
The Bajrangi Bhaijaan Legacy
Harshaali made her unforgettable debut in Kabir Khan’s Bajrangi Bhaijaan, playing the mute Pakistani girl Shahida (Munni) opposite Salman Khan. Her performance was so compelling that it earned her a nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut – a rare honor for a child artist.
What Made Her Special:
- Natural acting ability despite being just 7 years old
- Expressive eyes that conveyed emotions without dialogue
- Chemistry with Salman Khan that became the film’s emotional core
- International recognition for her performance
Akhanda 2: The Big Comeback
After winning hearts across the country as the endearing Munni, Harshaali is all set for a powerful return to cinema in Akhanda 2. Directed by mass-action specialist Boyapati Srinu, the film stars Nandamuri Balakrishna in the lead role.
Movie Details:
- Release Date: September 25, 2025 (Dussehra)
- Character: Janani – a central character whose presence drives the narrative
- Genre: Spiritual action drama set in the Himalayas
- Music: S Thaman returns as composer
- Production: 14 Reels Plus banner
From Munni’s Silence to Janani’s Voice
Harshaali has expressed deep emotional connections to her new role, emphasizing her growth and preparation over the years. “From Munni’s silence to JANANI’s voice, this isn’t just my return – It’s ours”, she shared, highlighting the symbolic transition from her mute character in Bajrangi Bhaijaan to a speaking role in Akhanda 2.
Her Role in Akhanda 2:
- Part of an emotional track that gives a new turn to the story
- Emotional bond with Balakrishna’s character brings depth to the narrative
- Her innocence and powerful acting will breathe life into the role
Career Transformation
Now all grown up, Harshaali is set to make her debut in Telugu cinema with this prestigious project. Born on June 3, 2008, in Mumbai to a Punjabi Hindu family, she has carefully chosen her comeback project after years of preparation.
Why This Comeback Matters:
- Marks her transition from child artist to leading actress
- Entry into the lucrative Telugu film industry
- Collaboration with veteran actor Nandamuri Balakrishna
- Association with successful franchise (Akhanda was a 2021 blockbuster)
Future Prospects
With Akhanda 2 promising high-stakes drama and featuring Balakrishna in a more intense look with a long beard, Harshaali’s return couldn’t be more perfectly timed. The film also stars Samyuktha as the female lead and Aadhi Pinisetty as the antagonist.
Her journey from Bollywood’s beloved child star to Telugu cinema’s promising newcomer represents a strategic career move that could open doors to pan-Indian projects.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What role does Harshaali Malhotra play in Akhanda 2?
A: Harshaali plays Janani, a central character whose presence drives the narrative in Akhanda 2. She will be part of an emotional track that gives a new turn to the story, with her emotional bond with Balakrishna’s character bringing depth to the film.
Q: When is Harshaali Malhotra’s Akhanda 2 releasing?
A: Akhanda 2: Thaandavam is scheduled for release on September 25, 2025, during the Dussehra festival. This marks her return to cinema after a decade since her debut in Bajrangi Bhaijaan.
