On National Sports Day 2025, we are spotlighting the versatile Bollywood actress and sportswoman Neetu Chandra. Famous for her roles in Bollywood films, Neetu has also won 5 gold medals in Taekwondo and represented India in international championships.
Entertainment: Who can forget the bubbly air hostess Sweety from Bollywood's 'Garam Masala'? Actress Neetu Chandra, who debuted in Bollywood with this film in 2005, won the hearts of the audience with her very first film. After that, she once again captivated people with her dance in Singham-3. Neetu Chandra is not just limited to acting; she has also been a remarkable sportswoman.
In Taekwondo, she won 5 gold medals at the state level and has represented India in international championships. Today, on National Sports Day, her true story is inspiring. Neetu is not only a brilliant actress but also a model, producer, theatre artist, classical dancer, and the first Bollywood actress to achieve a Black Belt in Taekwondo.
Neetu Chandra: A Wonderful Blend of Acting and Sports
Neetu Chandra debuted in Bollywood in 2005 with Priyadarshan's comedy film ‘Garam Masala’. Her character 'Sweety' in the film became etched in the hearts of the audience. After this, Neetu won the hearts of fans with her dance and acting in films like Singham-3. However, Neetu is not just a Bollywood actress but also a Black Belt Taekwondo player, model, producer, theatre artist, and classical dancer. Neetu is recognized as the first Black Belt actress in Bollywood.
Neetu Chandra was born on June 20, 1984, in Patna, Bihar. She completed her schooling from Notre Dame Academy in Patna and obtained her graduate degree from Indraprastha College in Delhi. Neetu credits her mother, Neera Chandra, for her career success. Starting her career in modeling, Neetu showcased her acting and sports skills through various advertisements and photoshoots.
Achievements in Taekwondo
Neetu Chandra is a holder of a fourth Dan Black Belt in Taekwondo.
- 5 Gold Medals at the State Level
- Represented India at the Hong Kong World Taekwondo Championship in 1997
- Participated in the Delhi World Korfball Championship in 1995
- Silver Medal in Taekwondo at the National Games
Her achievements in sports prove that Neetu has not only made a name for herself in films but has also brought pride to India in sports.
Bollywood and South Indian Films
Neetu acted in Bollywood films like Garam Masala, Traffic Signal, Oye Lucky! Lucky Oye!, and 13B: Fear Has a New Address. She also left her mark in South Indian films like the Telugu film ‘Godavari’. For her role in ‘Traffic Signal’, Neetu spent a week on the streets of Mumbai, making her performance even more realistic and impactful.
Neetu's career has not been untouched by controversies. In 2009, during the shooting of the Telugu film ‘Satyameva Jayate’, actor Rajasekhar was accused of misconduct. Neetu filed a Public Interest Litigation in the Patna High Court against the rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh's song ‘Maniac’. Neetu faced every struggle head-on and stood firm for her rights and principles.
Success in Hollywood
After Bollywood, Neetu Chandra also made her mark in Hollywood.
- In 2021, she played the role of a martial arts fighter named Jaya in the Hollywood film ‘Never Back Down: Revolt’.
- She also had a role in the Hollywood show ‘Gown and Out in Beverly Hills’.
- She received the role without an audition because producer David Gelon saw her martial arts skills and film experience.
Neetu has also showcased her talent in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and Kannada films. Neetu Chandra is not just a successful actress but also an inspiring sports talent, a Black Belt holder, and an international representative. Her life demonstrates that it is possible to achieve excellence in both Bollywood and sports.
