Bollywood stars who embraced their mother's name and carved their own legacy

Aditi Rao Hydari comes from two royal lineages, but it is her mother’s name that she carries forward. Her mother, Vidya Rao, is a renowned classical singer, and Aditi has often spoken about how she has been the strongest influence in her life. With stellar performances in films like Padmaavat, Wazir, and Sufiyum Sujatayum, Aditi takes immense pride in the Rao-Hydari heritage she represents.

National Award-winning actress and filmmaker Konkona Sen Sharma inherited her surname from her mother, Aparna Sen, a legendary director and actress in Bengali cinema. Aparna Sen’s contribution to Indian cinema is unparalleled, and Konkona has successfully carried forward her legacy. With critically acclaimed performances in films like Mr. and Mrs. Iyer, Wake Up Sid, and Lipstick Under My Burkha, Konkona has proved her mettle as an artist who values her mother’s name and influence.

Born Elisabeth Marie Haydon, the actress and model shortened her name to Lisa Haydon, keeping her mother’s maiden surname. Best known for her performances in Queen and Ae Dil Hai Mushkil, Lisa has made a mark in Bollywood while staying true to her maternal lineage. Her decision reflects her deep-rooted connection to her mother’s heritage.

Born Reema Lamba, the actress adopted ‘Mallika’ as her screen name, which means ‘queen,’ and took her mother’s maiden name, Sherawat, as her surname. She made this change to establish her own identity in Bollywood, distancing herself from her conservative family background. Mallika became a trailblazer with bold roles in films like Murder, Pyaar Ke Side Effects, and Welcome. Her name change symbolized her desire to break societal norms and redefine her career on her own terms.

Prateik Babbar, the son of legendary actress Smita Patil and actor-politician Raj Babbar, chose to carry his mother’s surname as a tribute to her. Smita Patil, one of Indian cinema’s most celebrated actresses, passed away shortly after giving birth to him. Inheriting her name became Prateik’s way of keeping her memory alive and honoring her immense contribution to Indian cinema. Despite being born into a powerful film lineage, he chose to carve his own path in Bollywood with roles in films like Jaane Tu... Ya Jaane Na, Dhobi Ghat, and Mulk.

Samantha Ruth Prabhu adopted her full name, including her mother Ninette Prabhu’s surname, to honor her. While she initially debuted as Samantha Prabhu, she later added 'Ruth' to her name, making it a significant part of her identity. Known for her stellar performances in films like Ye Maaya Chesave, Super Deluxe, and Family Man 2, Samantha’s name carries deep personal and familial significance.

One of Bollywood’s most celebrated filmmakers, Sanjay Leela Bhansali, took his mother Leela Bhansali’s name as a mark of respect and love. The ace director, known for magnum opus films like Devdas, Bajirao Mastani, Padmaavat, and Gangubai Kathiawadi, credits his mother as a significant influence in his life. His choice to include her name reflects the strong bond they share and is a unique tribute to her role in shaping his journey.