Ten years ago, Bajrangi Bhaijaan won hearts here and abroad with its heartwarming story of generosity, devotion, and the universal that unites people. Kabir Khan directed it, with Salman Khan starring, and it became a hit. But the most memorable aspect of it was the quiet yet highly expressive role of Munni, played by child actor Harshaali Malhotra.
With the film clocking in a decade, Harshaali comes clean about her experience, from auditioning for the part and bonding with the cast, particularly Salman Khan, to how the experience influenced her passion for acting.
“Was That Really Me?”
Even now, watching the film brings a wave of disbelief and nostalgia for Harshaali. “Whenever I watch Bajrangi Bhaijaan now, I wonder in amazement, ‘Was that really me?’” she says with a smile. “It still feels unreal.”
At only six years old, she couldn’t have imagined that her role would become so memorable. Even today, people recognize her and speak fondly of her performance. “They often tell me how adorable I was and how the climax made them cry,” she shares. That love is something I’ll never forget.”
A Dream Audition
The path to landing the role was competitive. “There were a few rounds of auditions at Mukesh Chhabra sir’s office,” Harshaali recalls. “In the final round, five girls were shortlisted, and we had to perform small activities and scenes.”
Unbeknownst to them, director Kabir Khan watched quietly from a distance, observing their natural reactions. I was always the one to go first. I never waited; I just went for it in my own style.”
That self-assurance truly made a difference. Soon after, she was finalized, and the team took her to meet Salman Khan at his Galaxy Apartment.
Bonding with Salman Khan
Though their on-screen bond was heartwarming, Harshaali says the off-screen friendship was equally special. “We never rehearsed before shooting, but we spent a lot of time together between scenes. We played table tennis and went on ATV rides.”
She remembers one moment that stayed with her. “Once I was feeling unwell while shooting, and Salman sir told me, ‘If an actor is sick, it should never show on their face while performing.’ That lesson meant a lot.”
A Director Who Understood Her
Working with Kabir Khan as a child artist was an incredible experience. “Kabir sir and I had a strong bond. He explained every scene in such detail that I could understand exactly what was expected,” she says. “I used to ask a lot of questions, and he never lost patience.”
Portraying a mute character was no easy task. Harshaali was forced to rely entirely on expressions and facial gestures. “It was tough, particularly at that age. But I practiced very hard, and Kabir Sir’s guidance helped me get every shot right.”
The Iconic Climax
One of the most poignant moments of Bajrangi Bhaijaan is the last scene, when Munni is reunited with her mother. It’s a scene that left audiences in tears, and Harshaali herself too.
“Kabir sir told me it would be emotional, but I didn’t realize how much. People still come up to me and say they cried watching that scene. And I did too,” she shares. That moment has stayed with her as a reminder of how powerful storytelling can be.
Co-Stars and Kindness
While her scenes were mostly with Salman Khan, Harshaali also interacted with Kareena Kapoor Khan and Nawazuddin Siddiqui. They were always warm and affectionate toward me.
But I didn’t get much time with them because most of my scenes were with Salman sir,” she says.
Still, the overall atmosphere on set was full of warmth and support, something she cherishes even today.
Looking Ahead: The Next Chapter
Ten years have gone by, but Harshaali’s love for acting has increased only more intensely. “I love acting. I want to keep doing this for the rest of my life. “Bajrangi Bhaijaan was the start, and I’m ready to do it all again with a bit more hard work.”
She’s busy working on her next film, Akhanda 2, and also hopes that the audience will love her as much as they loved her when she debuted as Munni. “I aim to put my best effort into everything I do.
I will keep on performing my hard work and putting my heart and soul into every position.
A Legacy of Love
Even after 10 years, Bajrangi Bhaijaan is a special film not just for Bollywood, but for anyone who watched it and felt something real. And Harshaali Malhotra, as Munni, still has a special place in that narrative.
In retrospect, she considers the film to be greater than merely her debut; it was the beginning of a fantasy that she’s still pursuing with all her heart.
And without a doubt, this is just the beginning for her.