Happy Birthday Genelia Deshmukh; Check out these lesser-known facts about the talented actor

Genelia Deshmukh’s early life and the secret behind her name

Genelia’s name is a combination of her parents' names Jeanette and Neil. Similarly, her brother is also called Nigel. Mumbai-native D'Souza, now Deshmukh is a Catholic from Mangalore. She was brought up in Bandra.

Genelia Deshmukh’s athletic endeavors

Genelia was also a national-level football player and a state-level athlete before beginning her acting career. She has participated in numerous football competitions in a variety of locations.

Genelia Deshmukh’s career beginnings

The actress Geneliawas only 15 when she landed her first ad commercial after getting noticed while attending a wedding while dressed as a bridesmaid. Amitabh Bachchan, a seasoned actor, appeared alongside her in her first commercial. They both endorsed Parker pens.

Genelia Deshmukh’s entry into the cinema

Genelia’s advertisement with Amitabh Bachchan was taken notice of by Tamil filmmaker S. Shankar, who chose to give her a prominent role in his 2003 film Boys, which also starred Siddharth. The film marked her Tamil debut. Genelia’s Bollywood debut came in Tujhe Meri Kasam. While Genelia's performance was acclaimed, the film's provocative subject matter received criticism. But later, the coming-of-age movie became a cult classic.

Genelia Deshmukh’s personal life

Before getting married, Genelia dated Bollywood superstar Riteish Deshmukh for about ten years. While filming their first Hindi film, Tujhe Meri Kasam, Riteish and Genelia apparently fell in love and entered into a relationship. The couple got married in 2012. They are parents to two sons, Riaan and Rahyl.

Genelia Deshmukh’s production ventures

In addition to acting, Genelia has also turned into a producer for the Marathi film Mauli(2018). The film stars Riteish Deshmukh and Saiyami Kher in lead roles.