Pratibha Ranta - Aza Fashions Magazine

Pratibha Ranta

Girl with the Midas Touch

This aspiring actor from a small town in Himachal Pradesh with no industry connections dared to deviate from a typical potboiler film debut. Where do you presume that could land the doe-eyed beauty? Think the Oscars red carpet. Just a year old in Bollywood, Aza’s muse of the month already boasts two megahits and only intends to soar higher.
Photographs by Tejas Nerurkar; Styling by Anshika Verma; Styling assistance by Tanisha Bhatia; Fashion Intern Vanshi Shah; Hair by Sanjana Ghedia; Makeup by Richard Joseph; Artist Reputation Management by Communiqué Film PR; Creative Direction by Arthi Medithi; Words by Kajol Shah

Amidst a busy lane in Mumbai, a particular billboard catches my eye on the way to work. ”Never Laapata in bread – Ladies love it” reads the copy on the creative featuring a sketch of the two female protagonists of Laapata Ladies, alongside the Oscars statuette. No points for guessing that the much-admired advertising team of Amul was behind the topical, celebrating the announcement of Kiran Rao and Aamir Khan’s latest production as India's official entry for the 2025 Academy Awards' Best International Feature Category. Clearly, it was the talk of the town. However, a flurry of dissenting views circulated on the internet.
Pratibha Ranta in Seema Gujral Outfit
Shop the Look
Designer, Seema Gujral; Earrings, Razwada Jewels; Rings, Èclat Diamonds; Bangle, Dolsun Jewels
quotes-img
It’s natural for art to evoke varied emotions, and I see it as part of the process. I’ve learned to focus on the positive and remain grounded in the intention behind our work.

Accolades and Intent

Pratibha describes the news as a “dream come true“ for her, yet she graciously addresses the questions posed on the credibility of the film compared to its competition. “The outpouring of joy and pride from so many was overwhelming and heartwarming. At the same time, I was aware of the criticism and differing opinions that surfaced. It’s natural for art to evoke varied emotions, and I see it as part of the process. I’ve learned to focus on the positive and remain grounded in the intention behind our work.“ She pauses as the makeup artist gestures for her to stay still while he perfects her eyeliner. A minute later, with her eyes closed and her hands animated, she continues to emphasize her intent to give the audience a visceral experience. “The film’s recognition on such a global platform reaffirms the importance of the story we wanted to tell. For me, the journey isn’t just about accolades but also about the conversations and awareness it sparks, and I’m proud to be part of that dialogue.“
Pratibha Ranta in Abhinav Mishra Outfit
Shop the Look
Designer, Abhinav Mishra; Choker, Sanzany Jewels; Rings & Bangles, Maharashtra Jewellers

Real versus Surreal

The art: a zari-embroidered mirror lehenga set; the artist: Abhinav Mishra; the muse: Pratibha Ranta; and the music: Dekho Chand Aaya from Saawariya. These come together to create a sublime atmosphere reminiscent of a larger-than-life Sanjay Leela Bhansali period drama. The burnished lehenga's intricate mirrorwork and the glow of the studio lights collide, casting a mesmerizing reflection on the wall that Pratibha gazes at, giving us a dreamy portrait. It's the perfect setting to segue into a question about Heeramandi. Having experienced both realism and larger-than-life drama in her work, what was more challenging, I ask her. “Both Shama (Heeramandi) and Jaya (Laapata Ladies) were challenging and distinct roles for me. But despite the differences, both characters shared a passionate drive, which became my anchor in exploring their stories. Jaya’s character required me to confront a harsh reality where many women lack the privilege to make their own choices. To portray her authentically, I underwent extensive research, dialect training workshops and also took help from my friends from Madhya Pradesh. Shama, on the other hand, was a character I had to envision entirely, as her reality was unfamiliar to me.“

Female Power Hour

As Pratibha strides out of the changing room, the soft fluttering of her danglers serves as the initial signal alerting us to get moving again. Decked in a captivating red sharara set by Aariyana Couture, an Aza-exclusive designer, she's fully embracing the siren energy while still maintaining her demure conduct. Pre-shoot, when I took a deeper look into Pratibha's childhood, the revelation that stuck with me is that the most significant feminine influence on her upbringing was her grandmother.
quotes-img
“My grandmother, even at 80, remains my greatest inspiration. She's always curious and eager to learn.
Pratibha Ranta in Aariyana Couture Outfit
Shop the Look
Designer, Aariyana Couture; Earrings, Adrisya by Shabnam Bhojwani; Bangles, Niramya Jewels; Rings, Adrisya by Shabnam Bhojwani, Èclat Diamonds

At three, the 2000s baby moved in with her grandparents while her parents handled an apple orchard farm. “As teachers, they understood how to raise us with a progressive mindset, emphasizing independence and resilience.“ With a sweet anecdote, she speaks of the impact her grandmother has on her. “My grandmother, even at 80, remains my greatest inspiration. She's always curious and eager to learn. I remember when she had to transition from a button to a touchscreen cellphone, she adapted to it like a pro! In general, she's so good with technology for her age. Her zest for life and thirst for knowledge continue to drive me,“ Pratibha shares, with curlers in her hair, coffee in her hand, and a twinkle in her eye.
Pratibha Ranta in Mrunalini Rao Outift
Shop the Look
Designer, Mrunalini Rao; Earrings, Sanzany Jewels; Rings, Maya Sanghavi Jewels

The Big Move

quotes-img
To keep my family and myself at peace, I enrolled in a filmmaking course at Usha Praveen Gandhi College. That was my ticket to Mumbai.

One might assume that an egalitarian and progressive household with educated, financially independent female figures and feminist patriarchs would have minimal qualms about her move to Mumbai to pursue a career in showbiz. However, she admits that her family did balk at the idea of it. “They were skeptical about my pursuit of dance and acting due to the uncertainties of the career field. But I only ever saw myself as an actor. To keep my family and myself at peace, I enrolled in a filmmaking course at Usha Praveen Gandhi College. That was my ticket to Mumbai. Through college, I began connecting with people in the industry and soon started giving auditions and becoming a part of casting circles.“
Pratibha Ranta in Ritika Mirchandani Outfit
Shop the Look
Designer, Ritika Mirchandani; Choker, Maya Sanghavi Jewels; Bangles, Maya Sanghavi Jewels, Maharashtra Jewellers; Rings, Maharashtra Jewellers, Sanzany Jewels

Are the Mountains Calling (Back)?

Snowcapped peaks or vibrant city lights? Well, I wouldn't subject the Pahadi beauty to the conundrum of choosing between the two. While Shimla offers her peace, Mumbai fuels her adrenaline. I am, however, curious to know what she cherishes most about both cultures. Her answer is simple yet profound: “Don't people carry culture? I simply miss the instant connection with my people back home.” Talking about the shiny positives of the sparkling city, she shoots a childlike grin and says, “I love the food! The kick that roadside chaat and a good vada pav gives is unmatched.”

Taking Accountability

In 2009, when the commercial blockbuster 3 Idiots was released, it created waves unlike anything Indian cinema had witnessed before. My mother, who would otherwise panic with me the night before an important exam, instead chanted “All is well” repeatedly. It may have been a temporary shift but one with a big impact. Cinema wields an influence that extends far beyond entertainment, and with that power comes significant responsibility.
Pratibha Ranta in Ritika Mirchandani Outfit
Shop the Look
Designer, Aariyana Couture; Choker, Maharashtra Jewellers; Bangles, Maharashtra Jewellers; Rings, Maya Sanghavi Jewels, Maharashtra Jewellers

In a recent interview, Pratibha shared how Aamir Khan, ever the social justice advocate, held a webinar on women’s safety during the shoot of Laapata Ladies. How else can cinema contribute to addressing feminist issues? It seemed a pertinent question to ask her. “I believe cinema should go beyond portraying women as victims or symbols and instead represent them as multi-dimensional individuals. When stories emphasize equality, respect, and empowerment, they have the power to inspire change and educate audiences.”
quotes-img
I believe cinema should go beyond portraying women as victims or symbols and instead represent them as multi-dimensional individuals.

Talent, accountability, and charm—I consider these the holy trinity of a successful Bollywood star. And based on this interview and my brief interaction with Pratibha, it’s clear to me that this fresh face is here to stay and soar.

Get Insider Access

Follow us:

What's new on Aza Avenue?

Discover the latest trends on Aza's fashion blog

aza-avenue-1

Fun, Memorable & Above All – Presenting Glamorous Bride in Aza Magazine...

aza-avenue-2

Exclusive Interview With Seema Gujral On Bridal Trends...

aza-avenue-3

9 Puff Sleeve Designs to Mark the Trend’s Timely Revival...

image

Paulmi And Harsh: Meet the Artistic Mind Behind the Brand...