Mandira: Caught & Bowled!

The ebullient Punjabi kudi with twinkling eyes has almost completely abandoned the big screen now (or is it the other way round?).

A self-confessed cricket addict, Mandira started off her "cricketing career" as anchor to 'Extraa Innings', a TV show during the cricket World Cups of 2003 and 2007. She is also on a commentary panel, for the ongoing edition of the World Cup.

From a historical perspective, Mandira is the only star from Bollywood to have made a mark in Indian Cricket!!!

Click on, for some stunning snaps of the Bedi babe!

Mandira Bedi was born on April 15, 1972.

Though she is a native of Mumbai, her ancestors can be traced down to the Khatri Clan of Fazilka, Punjab.

Mandira Bedi shot to fame, when she debuted in the popular TV serial, 'Shanti' (1994), on Doordarshan.

From then on, she did several films, serials, ad campaigns and modelling assignments.

Her Bollywood debut was in 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge' (1995).

Other film projects include: 'Badal', 'Manmadhan', 'Shaadi Ka Ladoo', 'Naam Gum Jaayega', 'Dus Kahaniyaan' and 'Meerabai Not Out'

Mandira returned to television with her vamp role in 'Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi'.

She then went on to do several shows. She was one of the presenters on the reality show, 'Fame Gurukul', and has anchored 'Deal Ya No Deal' (replacing actor Madhavan).

She was also the host of Star One's reality show, 'Jo Jeeta Wohi Super Star'.

Mandira struck gold when she began to host the 'Extra Innings' show of 2003 Cricket World Cup, where her "choice of attire" and self-proclaimed cricket frenzy became immensely popular. She then hosted the show during the 2007 World Cup too.

She is sometimes known as the First Lady of Cricket.

During the 2007 Cricket World Cup, she wore a sari sporting flags of various nations; the Indian flag was at the bottom of the sari, which caused much resentment.

Mandira Bedi married film director Raj Kaushal on Valentine's Day, 1999.

Though she has hosted two world cups and starred in many TV serials, she has not been able to cash in on her cricket popularity; she is yet to make a mark in Bollywood.

Images: Bollywood, Santabanta

Source: India Syndicate