Kriti Sanon has swiftly emerged as one of Bollywood's leading actresses, captivating audiences with her talent and versatility. She made her debut in Hindi cinema opposite Tiger Shroff in Sajid Nadiadwala's Heropanti, a film that not only marked her entry into the industry but also led to her being affectionately dubbed "Tiger's heroine." Since that pivotal moment, Kriti has made significant strides in the film industry, establishing her presence with a series of blockbuster hits, including Bareilly Ki Barfi, Luka Chuppi, and Bhediya. Her exceptional performance as a surrogate mother in Mimi earned her a National Award, affirming her status as a serious contender in Bollywood, despite the initial challenge of moving beyond the moniker associated with her debut co-star.
In an interview , Kriti candidly reflected on her early experiences in the industry, revealing that she was often referred to as "Tiger Didii." This affectionate nickname, coined by the children of filmmaker Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, served as a constant reminder of the uphill battle she faced as an outsider in a world dominated by film families. Kriti remarked, “When you’re not from the industry, it takes longer to establish your name and face in people’s minds. Back then, the children of Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari, who later directed Bareilly Ki Barfi, used to call me 'Tiger Didii.' It was moments like these that made me realize I would have to work twice as hard for people to recognize and understand who I am.” This determination to redefine her narrative speaks volumes about her resilience and commitment to her craft.
Reflecting on her debut film, Kriti acknowledged the significance of Heropanti in her career trajectory. She explained, “During Heropanti, while people were familiar with Tiger and the film was his launch, the director and producer viewed it as a platform to introduce two new faces. I also had my moment of being recognized as one of the best Bollywood actresses through the songs and everything.” It is noteworthy that Heropanti was a remake of the Telugu film Parugu (2008), which went on to achieve commercial success, grossing ₹78 crores worldwide following its release.
As Kriti continues to evolve as an actress, she is actively promoting her upcoming Netflix thriller, Do Patti, alongside the esteemed Kajol. Directed by Shashank Chaturvedi, the film promises to showcase Kriti in a dual role, a testament to her growing versatility and range as an actress. Scheduled for release on October 25, 2024, Do Patti is highly anticipated and reflects Kriti's ongoing journey to redefine her legacy in the film industry.