contestant and TV actress Mahhi Vij recently took a walk down memory lane while discussing her early career with fellow contestant Kanika Mann. From landing her first music video soon after moving to Mumbai to missing out on film projects, Mahhi opened up about the twists that eventually led her to television.
Mahhi Vij’s first music video
Mahhi recalled that her entertainment journey began with the remix of the popular song Tu Tu Hai Wahi, also known as Tu Tu Hai Wahi (DJ Aqeel Mix). She featured in the video wearing a pink outfit.
Remembering how quickly she got her first opportunity after arriving in Mumbai, Mahhi said, ‘Bombay gayi toh aate hi mujhe music video mil gaya, woh pink dress wala, ‘Tu Tu Hai Wahi’. Woh pehla music video.’
She added that the first project was followed by several other music videos, many of which she described as successful. ‘Uske baad meri life se bahut saare music videos, saare hit kiye maine, saare,’ she recalled.
How Mahhi missed out on films
After establishing herself through music videos, Mahhi explored films and worked in South Indian cinema, including projects with Prabhu Deva and Mammootty.
She revealed that she was eventually selected by filmmaker Mani Ratnam for Yuva. ‘Phir do khatam hua music videos, phir main South films ki Prabhu Deva ke saath. Phir maine ki film Mammootty ke saath. Aur main phir wahan se final hui thi Yuva ke liye. Mani Ratnam ne mujhe Yuva ke liye select kiya,’ she said.
Mahhi also said she was considered for a role opposite Vivek Oberoi, which was eventually played by Kareena Kapoor. According to her, the project fell through after ‘kuch equations thodi kharab ho gayi thi kisi ke saath.’
From film setbacks to television
After returning to Delhi, Mahhi said discussions around two or three more films also ended without materialising. With repeated setbacks, she decided to try television, saying, ‘Uske baad wapas aa gayi Delhi. Phir do-teen filmon ki baat hui, last minute cancel ho gaya. Toh maine kaha main TV karungi.’
Her decision proved significant, as she went on to become a recognised face on television through Laagi Tujhse Lagan and Balika Vadhu. She also appeared on Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, Khatron Ke Khiladi and Nach Baliye 5, which she won with Jay Bhanushali.
Separation with Jay Bhanushali
Mahhi and Jay married in 2011. They welcomed Rajveer and Khushi into their family in 2017 and later had their biological daughter Tara in 2019. The couple announced their separation in January 2026 after months of speculation. They have said they will continue co-parenting their children.