A rare honor, undoubtedly!

Actors like Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, and Anupam Kher, among many others, have had the rare privilege of being directed by both Yash Chopra and his son, Aditya Chopra. It’s truly a unique honor to work under the vision of two stalwarts who have shaped Indian cinema in their own eras. But when it comes to actresses, this distinction is far more exclusive. In fact, only one actress has ever had the chance to be directed by both the legendary father and the equally celebrated son. Today, as we celebrate Yash Chopra’s birth anniversary, let’s uncover who she is and revisit this rare cinematic connection.

It's Anushka Sharma

Yes, you read that absolutely right. The actress, who made her debut opposite Shah Rukh Khan in 2008, happens to be the only woman to feature in films directed by both Yash and Aditya Chopra.

Anushka Sharma’s Debut Under Aditya Chopra

Anushka made her debut with 'Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi' in 2008, a romantic drama directed by Aditya Chopra. Cast opposite Shah Rukh Khan, she played Taani, a young bride whose arranged marriage unexpectedly leads to love. The film was a massive success and instantly established Anushka as one of the most promising new faces in the industry.

For a newcomer, being launched by Aditya Chopra was obviously no small feat. Aditya had already become a household name with his directorial debut 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge' (1995), which went on to achieve cult status. Choosing Anushka, then a model with no film background, was a risky move, but it surely paid off. Her performance was praised for its natural charm, making her a star to watch.

Yash Chopra’s Last Heroine

Four years later, Anushka had the chance to work with the legend himself, Yash Chopra. She played Akira Rai, a spirited documentary filmmaker, in his final directorial venture, 'Jab Tak Hai Jaan' in 2012. Once again, she was paired with Shah Rukh Khan, this time alongside Katrina Kaif in a love triangle.

The film was special not just because it marked Yash Chopra’s return to direction after eight years, but also because it became his swan song. Sadly, Yash passed away just weeks before the film’s release. For Anushka, being part of his last project was a career milestone, and her heartfelt portrayal even won her the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress.

In both instances (her debut with Aditya and her memorable role in Yash’s final film), Anushka shared screen space with Shah Rukh Khan, making the coincidence even more interesting. 

Anushka on the Rare Honor

Reflecting on this rare privilege, Anushka once shared in an interview with Bollywood Hungama, “I feel very special and unique that I got this chance to work with both of them. Adi is my first director and will always hold a special place in my life. As for Yashji, what can I even say? Every actress dreams of working in a Yash Chopra film. He could have chosen anyone, but he thought of me, and that’s something I’ll always cherish.”

She also opened up about the differences and similarities she observed in their filmmaking styles. While both were quick shooters compared to many directors, Anushka recalled that Yash Chopra would rarely go beyond two takes, believing that the first or second attempt was always the most authentic. She remembered shooting in Kashmir and Ladakh where 12-hour schedules often wrapped up in just seven, leaving the cast and crew free for the rest of the day.

Aditya, on the other hand, though equally efficient, sometimes asked for an additional take, which is a reflection of his meticulousness. But for her, both had a unique approach to storytelling. “Yashji made timeless love stories that revolved around the magic of relationships, while Adi’s films carry a deep sense of values, principles, and goodness. You can see that in characters like Raj Aryan of Mohabbatein or Suri from Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi. His heroes always stand for something right,” she explained.