by Pratyusha Banerjee (10 August 1991 – 1 April 2016) was a renowned Indian television actress who became a household name through her work in popular TV serials and reality shows. She gained widespread fame for her role as Anandi in the TV series Balika Vadhu.
Early Life and Background
Pratyusha was born into a Bengali family in Jamshedpur, Jharkhand, to Shankar and Soma Banerjee. Her father is a social worker who runs an NGO. In 2010, Pratyusha moved from Jamshedpur to Mumbai to pursue her acting career.
Career
Pratyusha began her television career with a supporting role in the show Rakt Sambandh. She then played Vaani, the best friend of Akshara (played by Hina Khan) in Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai on Star Plus.
Her big break came in 2010 when she was selected as the adult version of Anandi in the highly successful serial Balika Vadhu, replacing Avika Gor. She earned her household name through this role, portraying a strong and influential character. Pratyusha was chosen for this role via a talent hunt, surpassing other contestants from across India.
Following Balika Vadhu, she participated in several reality shows, including:
- Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa Season 5 (she later exited due to discomfort with rehearsals)
- Bigg Boss Season 7 in 2013, where she was one of the most competitive contestants
- Power Couple, along with her partner Rahul Raj Singh
She also played important roles in TV shows such as:
- Hum Hain Na (Lead role as Sagarika Mishra)
- Sasural Simar Ka (Antagonist role as Mohini)
- Gulmohar Grand (Special appearance)
- Comedy Classes (Comic role)
- Adhuri Kahaani Hamari (Lead role as Naagin)
Pratyusha appeared as a guest in several other shows and hosted episodes of Savdhaan India. She was nominated for multiple awards and won the BIG Star Most Entertaining Television Actor – Female award.
Death
Tragically, on 1 April 2016, Pratyusha Banerjee was found dead by hanging in her Mumbai apartment at the age of 24. The postmortem report concluded that the cause of death was asphyxia. However, her parents alleged that her boyfriend, actor-producer Rahul Raj Singh, was involved in her death, claiming it was a murder disguised as suicide. Legal proceedings followed with accusations and counterclaims regarding the circumstances surrounding her death.
Notable Television Work
| Year | Show | Role | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2010 | Rakt Sambandh | Priya Jagirdar | Supporting role |
| 2010 | Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai | Vaani | Recurring role |
| 2010–2013 | Balika Vadhu | Anandi Jagdish Singh / Shivraj Shekhar | Lead role |
| 2012 | Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa 5 | Contestant | Reality show |
| 2013 | Bigg Boss 7 | Contestant | Reality show |
| 2014–2015 | Hum Hain Na | Sagarika Mishra | Lead role |
| 2014 | Sasural Simar Ka | Mohini | Antagonist |
| 2016 | Adhuri Kahaani Hamari | Naagin | Lead role |
Awards and Recognition
- Nominated for Best Fresh New Face – Female at Indian Telly Awards (2010) for Balika Vadhu
- Nominated for Best Actress in a Lead Role and Best Television Personality at Indian Telly Awards (2012)
- Won BIG Star Most Entertaining Television Actor – Female (BIG Star Entertainment Awards)
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