Priyanka Kothari

Biography:

Priyanka Kothari, also known by her stage names Nisha Kothari and Amoha, is a former actress and model who worked in Bollywood, Telugu, Tamil, and Kannada films. She was particularly notable for her frequent appearances in films directed by Ram Gopal Varma. Kothari was born in West Bengal and later moved to New Delhi during her high school years. She pursued a bachelor’s degree in physical science from Delhi University at Dyal Singh College, choosing chemistry due to her father’s involvement in the chemical business. She also studied Kathak for six years and attended acting classes with Kishore Namit Kapoor.

Kothari’s career began as a model, where she participated in numerous advertising campaigns. Her breakthrough in the film industry came in 2003 when actor Madhavan recommended her for an audition in a Tamil film after seeing her photographs. She made her acting debut in the Tamil film “Jay Jay,” credited as Amoga. Her Bollywood debut was in the 2005 film “Sarkar,” followed by “James,” directed by Ram Gopal Varma, which catapulted her to fame as a sex symbol. Despite her early success, she later appeared in less significant roles and films, many of which were directed by Ram Gopal Varma, including “Shiva,” “Darna Zaroori Hai,” “Aag,” “Darling,” and “Agyaat.” She also made appearances in Sandalwood and Telugu films. In addition to her acting career, Kothari is a member of the International Film And Television Club of Asian Academy of Film & Television and co-founded the Nisha Foundation. She has also been involved in political campaigns and walked the ramp at Wills Lifestyle India Fashion Week in 2011, marking her return to Bollywood.