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Ashlesha Thakur
Ashlesha Thakur has emerged as one of the most promising young talents in the Indian entertainment industry.
Born on October 19, 2003, in the bustling city of Mumbai, Maharashtra, she has quickly risen from humble beginnings as a child model to starring in high-profile web series and films.
Her portrayal of Dhriti Tiwari in the critically acclaimed Amazon Prime Video series The Family Man catapulted her to fame, earning her widespread recognition for her natural acting prowess and relatable on-screen presence.
As of 2025, with a string of successful projects under her belt, including the action-packed Karate Girls and the much-anticipated The Family Man Season 3, Ashlesha continues to evolve as an actress, blending youthful energy with mature depth in her roles.
This comprehensive biography delves into her life, career, and achievements, drawing from reliable sources to provide an accurate and engaging narrative.
Whether you are a fan of her work in Bollywood, Tollywood, or the digital space, Ashlesha’s story is one of perseverance, talent, and growth.
Let us explore her journey step by step, starting from her early years and building up to her latest endeavors in 2025.
Ashlesha Thakur Early Life
Ashlesha Thakur, originally named Mahek Thakur, entered the world on a sunny Sunday in October 2003, in the heart of India’s entertainment capital, Mumbai.
Growing up in a middle-class family, she was surrounded by the vibrant energy of the city that never sleeps, a place where dreams of stardom are as common as the monsoon rains.
Her birth name, Mahek, which means “fragrance” in Hindi, was later changed to Ashlesha, a name derived from a Nakshatra (lunar mansion) in Hindu astrology, symbolizing resilience and adaptability.
This name change, which occurred early in her career, reflects her family’s belief in auspicious beginnings and perhaps a nod to her evolving identity in the public eye.
Mumbai, with its mix of glamour and grit, played a pivotal role in shaping Ashlesha’s worldview.
The city’s film industry, Bollywood, is not just an economic powerhouse but a cultural phenomenon that influences millions.
From a young age, Ashlesha was drawn to the performing arts.
She recalls in interviews how the bustling streets of Mumbai, filled with aspiring actors and street performers, ignited her passion.
“I always loved watching movies and TV shows with my family,” she shared in a 2024 chat about her inspirations.
“The way actors could make you laugh, cry, or think, it felt magical.”
This early fascination was not just passive; Ashlesha actively participated in school plays and local skits, honing her skills in front of small audiences long before the cameras rolled.
Her family provided a stable foundation amid the chaos of city life.
Born into a Hindu household, Ashlesha grew up with strong cultural values that emphasized education, discipline, and creativity.
The Thakur family, originally from Maharashtra, instilled in her a sense of humility and hard work.
Mumbai’s diverse neighborhoods exposed her to various cultures, languages, and stories, which later influenced her ability to portray multifaceted characters.
As a Libra by zodiac sign, she has often been described as balanced, charming, and artistic, traits that shine through in her performances.
Childhood in Mumbai was not without its challenges.
The competitive environment of the city can be overwhelming for young dreamers, but Ashlesha’s determination set her apart.
She balanced schoolwork with extracurricular activities, including dance classes where she trained in Indian classical forms like Bharatanatyam.
This training not only improved her physical grace but also taught her the discipline required for a career in entertainment.
“Dance was my first love”
She mentioned in a 2023 interview.
“It helped me express emotions without words, which is crucial for acting.”
By the time she was a teenager, Ashlesha had already started modeling, appearing in commercials that showcased her innocent charm and photogenic appeal.
To give a clearer picture of her early influences, here is a simple table outlining key aspects of her childhood:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Birthplace | Mumbai, Maharashtra, India |
| Birth Date | October 19, 2003 (Sunday) |
| Original Name | Mahek Thakur |
| Zodiac Sign | Libra |
| Early Interests | Acting in school plays, dancing, and watching Bollywood films |
| Cultural Background | Hindu, Maharashtrian family with emphasis on education and arts |
This period laid the groundwork for her future success, blending personal growth with professional aspirations.
As we move forward, it is clear that Ashlesha’s early life in Mumbai was more than just a backdrop; it was the catalyst for her starry journey.
Ashlesha Thakur Family Background
No biography would be complete without acknowledging the pillars of support in an artist’s life: their family.
For Ashlesha Thakur, her family has been instrumental in her rise to fame.
Her father, Amit Thakur, works in a corporate job, providing financial stability that allows Ashlesha to pursue her dreams without immediate pressure.
Her mother, Sunita Thakur, a homemaker, has been her biggest cheerleader, often accompanying her to auditions and sets during her early days.
“My mom is my rock.”
Ashlesha said in a heartfelt 2025 interview following the release of The Family Man Season 3.
“She believed in me when I was just a kid dreaming big.”
Ashlesha is the youngest of three siblings.
Her elder brother, Aman Thakur, has pursued a career in business, offering practical advice on managing fame and finances.
Her elder sister, Ekta Thakur, is a professional choreographer who has worked on various dance projects in Mumbai.
Ekta’s influence is evident in Ashlesha’s love for dance; the sisters often collaborate on fun reels and videos shared on social media.
Growing up, family gatherings were filled with music, dance, and storytelling, fostering a creative environment that nurtured Ashlesha’s talents.
The Thakur family resides in Mumbai, where they maintain a low-key lifestyle despite Ashlesha’s growing celebrity status.
They prioritize privacy, with Ashlesha rarely sharing personal family photos online.
However, she has spoken about how her family’s support helped her navigate the pressures of the industry.
In a 2024 discussion about Karate Girls, she credited her siblings for keeping her grounded:
“Aman bhaiya reminds me to stay focused, and Ekta dii helps with my dance moves for roles.”
This close-knit bond is a recurring theme in her interviews, highlighting how family values have shaped her character both on and off screen.
Religion plays a subtle role in their lives.
As practicing Hindus, the family celebrates festivals like Diwali and Ganesh Chaturthi with enthusiasm.
In August 2025, Ashlesha shared glimpses of her participation in Ganesh Visarjan on social media, dancing amidst the crowds, a moment that resonated with fans for its authenticity.
These traditions provide a sense of normalcy in her otherwise hectic life.
Here is a table summarizing her family members:
| Family | Relation | Occupation |
|---|---|---|
| Amit Thakur | Father | Corporate professional |
| Sunita Thakur | Mother | Homemaker, supportive of career |
| Aman Thakur | Brother | Businessman, elder sibling |
| Ekta Thakur | Sister | Choreographer, elder sibling, dance mentor |
This support system has been crucial, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, when Ashlesha focused on family while awaiting project releases.
As she continues to climb the ladder of success, her family’s unwavering backing remains her secret weapon.
Ashlesha Thakur Education
Education has always been a priority for Ashlesha Thakur, even as her acting career took off.
She attended local schools in Mumbai, where she excelled not just in academics but also in extracurricular activities.
Participating in drama clubs and debate teams helped her develop confidence and public speaking skills, essential for an actress.
“School was where I first learned to perform.”
She reflected in a 2021 interview after The Family Man Season 2.
After completing her secondary education, Ashlesha enrolled at Mithibai College in Mumbai, one of the city’s prestigious institutions affiliated with the University of Mumbai.
She pursued a degree in Arts, majoring in Psychology, which she chose because it aligned with her interest in understanding human emotions, a skill that enhances her acting.
Balancing college with shooting schedules was no easy feat.
During the filming of Pagglait in 2021, she studied between takes, often revising notes on set.
“Education keeps me grounded.”
She explained in a 2024 chat.
“It gives me a backup and broadens my perspective.”
Mithibai College is known for its vibrant campus life, and Ashlesha made the most of it.
She joined the college’s theater group, performing in inter-college festivals and winning accolades for her roles in plays.
Her fluency in French, learned during college, has been a unique asset; she once mentioned in an interview that it helped her connect with international co-stars on multi-lingual sets.
Additionally, her training in Indian classical dance continued, with the college providing platforms to showcase her talents at cultural events.
The pandemic disrupted her college years, shifting classes online, but Ashlesha adapted by focusing on self-study and online courses in acting and scriptwriting.
By 2025, she had graduated, marking a personal milestone alongside her professional achievements.
Her educational journey underscores a key message she often shares with young fans: “Never stop learning. It makes you a better artist and person.”
To illustrate her educational timeline:
| Phase | Institution | Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Schooling | Local Mumbai schools | Active in plays, skits, and dance |
| Higher Education | Mithibai College, Mumbai (BA in Arts, Psychology major) | Theater group member, French language learner |
| Additional Skills | Classical dance training, language courses | Fluent in French, participated in festivals |
This blend of formal education and practical experience has equipped Ashlesha with a well-rounded skill set, making her stand out in the competitive world of entertainment.
Ashlesha Thakur Career Beginnings
Ashlesha Thakur’s entry into the entertainment industry was gradual but strategic.
She started as a child model, appearing in television commercials for brands like Himalaya, Kissan, Comfort, Cadbury, Reliance Fresh, Amazon, Swiggy, Samsung, and L&T.
These ads showcased her natural charm and ability to connect with audiences, earning her early recognition.
“Modeling was my stepping stone,” she said in a 2023 retrospective.
“It taught me how to face the camera without fear.”
In 2017, at just 14 years old, Ashlesha made her acting debut with the TV show Shakti – Astitva Ke Ehsaas Ki on Colors TV.
She played a young Sindhu Singh in 61 episodes, a role that involved emotional depth and introduced her to the rigors of daily shooting.
That same year, she stepped into films with Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai, directed by Keshav Panneriy, where she had a supporting child role.
Though small, it was a learning experience.
She also appeared in Badrinath Ki Dulhania as a young girl in a school scene, sharing screen space with stars like Varun Dhawan and Alia Bhatt.
These early roles were crucial for building her resume and confidence.
Associated with modeling agencies like Saundh India under Auraa Models and Model & Talent Management, Ashlesha networked effectively, landing auditions that led to bigger opportunities.
She also started a self-titled YouTube channel, uploading behind-the-scenes videos and vlogs, which helped her connect with fans directly.
Her breakthrough came in 2019 with The Family Man, but before diving into that, it is worth noting how these initial years shaped her.
The transition from commercials to acting required adaptability, and Ashlesha’s willingness to learn from every set experience paid off.
By 2018, she was ready for the spotlight, having honed her craft through workshops and on-the-job training.
Ashlesha Thakur Breakthrough Role
The role that changed everything for Ashlesha Thakur was Dhriti Tiwari in Amazon Prime Video’s The Family Man (2019-present).
Created by Raj Nidimoru and Krishna D.K., the series follows Srikant Tiwari (Manoj Bajpayee), a middle-class man juggling family life with his secret job as an intelligence officer.
Ashlesha plays his teenage daughter Dhriti, a character who embodies the typical adolescent struggles, school, romance, and family conflicts, while adding layers of humor and heart.
Auditioning for the role was nerve-wracking, but Ashlesha impressed the directors with her authenticity.
“I related to Dhriti because she is just like me, curious, a bit rebellious, but loving,” she shared in a 2019 promo interview.
The first season, released in September 2019, was a massive hit, praised for its blend of thriller elements and family drama.
Ashlesha’s performance as the sassy yet vulnerable Dhriti earned rave reviews.
Critics noted her chemistry with Bajpayee and Priyamani (who plays her mother, Suchitra), calling it “heartwarming and realistic.”
In Season 2 (2021), Dhriti’s storyline deepened, exploring themes like first love and independence.
A notable scene involved a kissing sequence, which Ashlesha later described as “no fun” in interviews, highlighting the awkwardness of filming intimate moments as a teen.
The season’s success boosted her social media following, with fans sending her marriage proposals via DMs, a quirky side effect of fame she laughs about.
Season 3, released in 2025, took Dhriti’s arc to new heights.
Amid the family’s chaos, Srikant’s arrest warrant, a strained marriage, and a government ban on Chinese apps, Dhriti gets entangled in a vicious online troll campaign targeting her mother’s app, ShrinkMe.
This plotline allowed Ashlesha to showcase emotional range, from defiance to vulnerability.
Reviews praised her as “impressive,” noting how she tried “something novel” with the character’s growth into young adulthood.
At the trailer launch in November 2025, Ashlesha tripped on stage but was graciously helped by co-star Priyamani, a moment that went viral for its endearing realness.
Working with Manoj Bajpayee has been a highlight.
In a September 2025 event, Bajpayee guided her on posing for paparazzi, showcasing their father-daughter-like bond off-screen.
Bajpayee has publicly called her his “favorite collaborator,” praising her dedication.
For Ashlesha, the series was a masterclass: “Manoj sir taught me to stay true to the character, no matter what.”
The Family Man not only made her a household name but also opened doors to diverse projects, solidifying her status as a versatile actress.
Ashlesha Thakur Films And Web Series
Following The Family Man, Ashlesha Thakur diversified her portfolio, taking on roles in films, short films, and more web series.
In 2021, she starred in the Netflix film Pagglait as Aditi Giri, a young widow navigating grief and family expectations in a comedic-dramatic setup.
Directed by Umesh Bist, the movie featured Sanya Malhotra in the lead, and Ashlesha’s supporting role was lauded for its subtlety.
“It was my first deep dive into emotional complexity,” she recalled in interviews.
The film’s exploration of societal norms resonated with audiences, earning it positive reviews.
That year, she also appeared in the Amazon Mini TV short film Gupt Gyaan as Ritu, a story about teenage curiosity and education on sensitive topics.
It was a bold choice, addressing sex education in India, and Ashlesha’s performance was appreciated for its sensitivity.
2023 was a banner year.
In Shah Rukh Khan’s blockbuster Jawan, directed by Atlee, she played Alia Gaikwad, the daughter of Vijay Sethupathi’s character.
Though a special appearance, her scenes added emotional weight to the action thriller.
Sharing photos with SRK on social media, Ashlesha called it a “dream come true.”
The film grossed over ₹1,000 crore worldwide, exposing her to a massive audience.
She made her Tollywood debut with Shanthala (2023), a Telugu historical drama where she portrayed the titular character Shantala, a strong-willed princess.
Released on December 15, 2023, the film showcased her in traditional attire and intense dramatic sequences, marking her entry into South Indian cinema.
Critics praised her accent and commitment to the role.
In the web space, 2023 saw her in Sarvam Shakthi Mayam on ZEE5 as Revathi, a spiritual journey tale, and Gutar Gu on Amazon Mini TV as Ritu Chauhan, a coming-of-age romance opposite Vishesh Bansal.
Gutar Gu explored young love and challenges, with Ashlesha’s chemistry with Bansal being a highlight.
The series ran for three seasons, with Season 3 in 2025 earning her a Filmfare OTT nomination.
2024 brought Karate Girls on Amazon MX Player, where she starred as Komal Kumar, an 18-year-old martial artist fighting societal odds.
The action series required intense training, and Ashlesha performed many stunts herself.
In a December 2024 interview with co-stars Celesti Bairagey, Manav Gohil, and Meiyang Chang, she discussed the physical demands: “The struggle scenes were tough, but empowering.”
The show won her the Best Actor (Female) – Web Series at the e4m Play Awards 2025, presented in June.
In 2025, she featured in the anthology Yuva Sapno Ka Safar on Waves OTT, in the segment “Samurai Stingray,” playing a young dreamer pursuing unconventional goals.
This role allowed her to experiment with fantasy elements, adding variety to her resume.
For a complete overview, here is her filmography in table form:
| Year | Title | Type | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Shakti – Astitva Ke Ehsaas Ki | TV Series | Young Sindhu Singh | 61 episodes |
| 2017 | Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai | Film | Child role | Hindi debut |
| 2017 | Badrinath Ki Dulhania | Film | Young girl in school | Supporting |
| 2019-2025 | The Family Man | Web Series | Dhriti Tiwari | Breakthrough, 3 seasons |
| 2021 | Gupt Gyaan | Short Film | Ritu | Amazon Mini TV |
| 2021 | Pagglait | Film | Aditi Giri | Netflix |
| 2023 | Jawan | Film | Alia Gaikwad | Special appearance |
| 2023 | Shanthala | Film | Shantala | Telugu debut |
| 2023 | Sarvam Shakthi Mayam | Web Series | Revathi | ZEE5 |
| 2023-2025 | Gutar Gu | Web Series | Ritu Chauhan | 3 seasons |
| 2024 | Karate Girls | Web Series | Komal Kumar | Amazon MX Player, award-winning |
| 2025 | Yuva Sapno Ka Safar | Web Anthology | Role in “Samurai Stingray” | Waves OTT |
This diverse body of work demonstrates her versatility, from drama to action, and her ability to adapt to different languages and formats.
Ashlesha Thakur Awards And Recognition
Ashlesha Thakur’s performances have not gone unnoticed, earning her several awards and nominations.
Her role in The Family Man Season 2 fetched the Best Supporting Actor – Female at the Hitlist OTT Awards 2022.
She was nominated for Best Supporting Actor (Female) – Series (Drama) at the Filmfare OTT Awards 2021 and the Indian Television Academy Awards 2021.
In 2025, Karate Girls brought her the Best Actor (Female) – Web Series at the e4m Play Streaming Media Awards, where she expressed her thrill:
“I feel extremely thrilled, happy, excited.”
For Gutar Gu Season 3, she received a nomination for Best Actor (Female) – Series (Drama) at the Filmfare OTT Awards 2025.
These accolades reflect her growing stature, with more likely to come as she takes on challenging roles.
Ashlesha Thakur Personal Life
Away from the cameras, Ashlesha Thakur leads a balanced life.
Unmarried and with no public romantic links as of 2025, she focuses on her career and self-growth.
The influx of marriage proposals post-The Family Man amuses her, but she prioritizes privacy.
Her hobbies include dancing, traveling, and listening to music.
Favorites include singers like The Weeknd, Coldplay, Halsey, Ariana Grande, and Selena Gomez, and actors Zendaya, Noah Centineo, and Lana Condor.
She is an avid learner, interested in new languages, and maintains fitness through dance and yoga.
Social media is her way to connect with over 720,000 Instagram followers.
Posts from 2025 include celebrations for The Family Man Season 3, Ganesh Visarjan, and event appearances, like the screening of Jugnuma (The Fable) in September.
Physically, Ashlesha stands at 5’7″ (170 cm), a height that has been discussed in the media for its commanding presence on screen.
She advocates for body positivity, sharing workout tips occasionally.
Ashlesha Thakur Philanthropy
While not extensively publicized, Ashlesha supports causes like education and women’s empowerment.
During the pandemic, she used her platform to promote vaccination and mental health awareness.
In interviews, she expresses a desire to contribute more as her career progresses.
Trivia
Did you know that Ashlesha Thakur is fluent in French? She learned the language during her college years at Mithibai and hopes to use it in an international project someday. This skill adds to her multifaceted persona, blending Indian roots with global aspirations.
Conclusion
Ashlesha Thakur’s journey from a child model in Mumbai to an award-winning actress is inspiring.
With hits like The Family Man, Jawan, and Karate Girls, she has proven her mettle, and 2025 projects like Season 3 of her breakthrough series signal even greater heights.
Her natural talent, combined with hard work and family support, makes her a role model for aspiring artists.
If you have enjoyed this deep dive into Ashlesha’s life and career, why not explore more biographies on our website?
From rising stars to industry legends, there is plenty to discover.
Stay tuned for updates on her next ventures.
Who knows what exciting role she will tackle next!
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