Shilpa Shetty is an acclaimed Indian actress and model, known for her significant contributions to Hindi cinema and her presence in reality television. Born as Ashwini Shetty on June 8, 1975, in Tamil Nadu, India, she became a prominent figure in the entertainment industry and gained international recognition, particularly after her participation in the UK reality show Celebrity Big Brother.

Shetty made her acting debut in the 1993 thriller Baazigar, a film that not only marked her entry into Bollywood but also earned her a nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actress. Throughout the 1990s, she experienced varying degrees of success, appearing in notable films such as the action-packed Main Khiladi Tu Anari (1994) and Jaanwar (1999). However, it was the romantic drama Dhadkan (2000) that served as a turning point in her career, showcasing her versatility as an actress.

Her subsequent roles in Indian (2001) and Rishtey (2002) garnered her critical acclaim and a second Filmfare nomination for Best Supporting Actress. Shetty's portrayal of a woman living with AIDS in the drama Phir Milenge (2004) further solidified her reputation as a serious actress and earned her a nomination for the Filmfare Award for Best Actress. She also received praise for her performance in Life in a... Metro (2007), which depicted the complexities of modern relationships. Following a series of successful films, including the action thriller Dus (2005) and the sports drama Apne (2007), Shetty took a hiatus from acting.

In 2006, Shetty transitioned into reality television, beginning with her role as a judge on the dance competition show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa. Her international fame soared when she participated in the fifth series of Celebrity Big Brother, where she became the first Indian contestant to win, drawing attention to the racism she faced during her time in the house. Following her win, she hosted the second season of the Indian version of Bigg Boss in 2008 and has since been a prominent judge on various dance and music reality shows, including Zara Nachke Dikha (2010), Nach Baliye (2012–2020), and Super Dancer (2016–2021).

After an extended break from film, Shetty returned to the silver screen in 2021 with the comedy film Hungama 2, and she is set to star in the action series Indian Police Force in 2024. Beyond her acting career, Shetty is a sought-after brand ambassador and has worked with numerous companies. She is an advocate for various social issues, including feminism, vegetarianism, and animal rights. Since 2006, she has collaborated with PETA on campaigns against the use of wild animals in circuses. A fitness enthusiast, Shetty launched her own yoga DVD in 2015 and actively participates in initiatives like the Fit India Movement, introduced by the Government of India.

In recognition of her contributions to social causes, Shetty was awarded the Champions of Change Award for her involvement in the Swachh Bharat Mission cleanliness campaign. Additionally, from 2009 to 2015, she was a co-owner of the Indian Premier League team Rajasthan Royals, further cementing her multifaceted career in the entertainment industry. Shilpa Shetty continues to evolve as an artist and public figure, leaving an indelible mark on both Bollywood and popular culture.