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Jennifer Winget

Jennifer Winget is an Indian actress and television host known for her prominent roles in Hindi-language television serials and her status as one of the highest-paid performers in the Indian television industry. Born on 30 May 1985 in Mumbai, Maharashtra, she began her career as a child artist and has since starred in numerous popular shows, earning critical acclaim for nuanced portrayals in dramas like Saraswatichandra, Beyhadh, and Bepannaah. Winget hails from a multicultural family; her father, Hemant Winget, is a Christian who works at , while her mother, Prabha Winget, is a Hindu homemaker, and she has one sibling. She completed her schooling at St. Xavier's High School in and earned a degree from K.J. Somaiya College of Science and Commerce. Her early entry into acting came at age eight with a supporting role as the younger version of the protagonist in the Bollywood film (1995), followed by appearances in Raja Ko Rani Se Pyar Ho Gaya (2000) and (2003). Transitioning to television, Winget gained widespread recognition for her role as Dr. Riddhima Gupta in the medical drama Dill Mill Gayye (2007–2010), which marked her breakthrough as a leading lady. She further solidified her popularity with the titular role of Kumud Desai in the romantic saga Saraswatichandra (2013–2014), the obsessive Maya Mehrotra in the thriller Beyhadh (2016–2017)—a rare negative lead for a female protagonist—and Zoya Siddiqui in the suspense drama Bepannaah (2018). Winget has also ventured into digital content with the lead role of Major Monica Mehra, a military lawyer, in the web series Code M (2020–2021), and is set to make her Netflix debut in an untitled mystery thriller series alongside Parineeti Chopra (2025). Her contributions to television have been honored with prestigious awards, including the Indian Television Academy Award for Best Actress (Drama) for Beyhadh in 2017, the Gold Award for Best Actor (Female) (Critics) in 2018, and the Indian Telly Award for Best Actor (Female) (Popular) for Bepannaah in 2019. In her , Winget married in 2012 after co-starring with him in , but the couple divorced in 2014; they have no children. She reportedly earns between ₹1.5 and ₹2 per episode as of 2025, reflecting her enduring influence and demand in the industry.

Early life

Family and upbringing

Jennifer Winget was born on May 30, 1985, in , , , to a Christian father, Hemant Winget, who worked at , and a Hindu mother, Prabha Winget, a homemaker who had previously worked in film production for a South Indian company. Her mixed from her parents' diverse backgrounds shaped a home environment that blended and traditions. She has one older brother, Moses Winget, who is five years her senior, and the siblings grew up in a close-knit dynamic that emphasized mutual support and independence. Raised in a regular middle-class household, Winget experienced a grounded childhood where her parents instilled core values of hard work, , and , teaching her to approach challenges with grace and balance professional pursuits with personal growth. Winget's early exposure to the entertainment industry came through her mother's work in film production, as she often accompanied her to sets during summer holidays, fostering an initial interest in acting without formal training. Her family provided unwavering support, with her parents driving her to shoots and waiting until they ended, reinforcing the importance of dedication in a non-industry-connected household beyond her mother's role.

Education and early influences

Jennifer Winget attended St. Xavier's High School in , where she completed her up to the 10th standard while balancing her emerging interest in the entertainment industry. During her school years, she described herself as a shy and introverted "" who preferred spending time with books and a close circle of two friends rather than engaging extensively in social activities. Her early exposure to the world of acting stemmed from her mother's involvement in film production for a South Indian company, where Winget would accompany her during summer vacations and observe the filmmaking process firsthand. This environment ignited her passion for performing, without any formal acting training. Her parents played a key role in supporting this interest while ensuring she maintained a grounded childhood alongside her studies. Winget completed her degree from K.J. Somaiya College of Science and Commerce in while balancing her acting commitments, honing her skills through practical on-set experience.

Professional career

Initial roles in film and television (1995–2009)

Jennifer Winget began her acting career as a child artist at the age of 10, making her debut in the 1995 Bollywood film , where she appeared in a minor supporting role alongside and . This early entry into the industry marked the start of her sporadic film appearances, including roles as a schoolgirl in Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat (1997) and a small part in Raja Ko Rani Se Pyar Ho Gaya (2000). By 2003, at age 18, she took on a more noticeable supporting role as Pooja Sharma in the romantic drama Kuch Naa Kaho, sharing screen space with Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan, which provided her initial exposure to larger productions. Transitioning to television in her late teens, Winget made her small-screen debut in 2002 with the children's fantasy series on Star Plus, portraying the character Piya in a light-hearted centered around magical adventures. This role was followed by supporting appearances in soap operas such as (2003) as Preeti and Kusum (2003) as Simran, where she began honing her skills in daily serialized formats. Her first significant television lead came in 2004 with Kaarthika on , playing the titular role of an ambitious aspiring singer from a modest background navigating personal and professional hurdles in . Winget's breakthrough in television arrived with the Dill Mill Gayye (2007–2010) on Star One, where she portrayed Dr. Riddhima Gupta, a dedicated intern dealing with romance and workplace dynamics in a setting; the show ran for over 800 episodes and significantly boosted her visibility among younger audiences. As a young starting without formal , Winget faced challenges such as frequent rejections during auditions and the demands of long shooting schedules, which she learned to manage on the job while her parents ensured a balance between her career and education to maintain normalcy. These early experiences, though demanding, laid the foundation for her growth in the competitive Indian entertainment landscape.

Breakthrough with lead roles (2010–2015)

Winget's transition to lead roles began with her portrayal of Kumud Desai in the Star Plus romantic drama Saraswatichandra, which aired from 2013 to 2014 and adapted Govardhanram Madhavram Tripathi's novel of the same name. In the series, she depicted a strong-willed village navigating conflicts, and societal expectations opposite Gautam Rode's titular , contributing to the show's depth and emotional resonance. The production garnered widespread popularity among viewers, often surpassing TRP expectations through its cultural authenticity and character-driven storytelling, marking Winget's emergence as a prominent television lead. Her performance as Kumud earned critical recognition, including the Indian Television Academy Award for (Jury) in 2013, her first major accolade in a leading capacity. Winget also received nominations for (Popular) at the same awards, alongside the show's other honors, underscoring the impact of her nuanced portrayal on the industry's perception of her as a versatile performer. During this period, Winget's rising profile cultivated a dedicated fanbase, with Saraswatichandra amplifying her media presence through fan events, interviews, and social buzz that positioned her as a quintessential leading lady. Her authentic depictions of empowered female characters resonated widely, solidifying her appeal and opening doors to further lead opportunities in the industry.

Established stardom in daily soaps (2016–2020)

Following the success of her role in Saraswatichandra, Jennifer Winget solidified her position as a leading actress in Indian television during this period through complex characters in popular daily soaps. In 2016, Winget took on the role of Maya Mehrotra in the series Beyhadh, portraying an obsessive lover whose intense and multifaceted personality drove the narrative. This character, who transitioned from a seemingly vulnerable to a possessive antagonist shaped by past , became a career-defining performance for Winget, earning widespread acclaim for its depth and nuance. The series, which aired until 2017, highlighted Winget's ability to command the screen in a role that blended romance, manipulation, and emotional turmoil, setting a new benchmark for female-led stories in Indian soaps. Winget's stardom continued to grow with her lead role as Zoya Siddiqui in the 2018 Colors TV romantic drama Bepannah, where she depicted a woman navigating betrayal, grief, and rediscovered love after her husband's and death. The character allowed Winget to explore emotional layers, from quiet resilience to passionate vulnerability, in a storyline that intertwined mystery and romance, showcasing her versatility beyond antagonistic roles. By this time, Winget had become one of India's highest-paid television actresses, reportedly earning around ₹1.5 per episode for Bepannah. In , Winget ventured into with the lead of Kajal Kapoor in the romantic drama , opposite , playing a divorced finding unexpected at an in . Though the received mixed reviews and achieved only modest commercial success upon its release, it marked Winget's return to the big screen as an adult lead in a mature, introspective narrative. Winget also made her web series debut with the lead role of Komolika Chaubey, a strong-willed , in Season 1 (2020) on and , investigating military-related cases. Winget reprised a version of her iconic character as Maya Jaisingh in in 2020, a sequel that emphasized themes of revenge and power dynamics amid the escalating . The production faced significant disruptions due to nationwide lockdowns, leading to an abrupt end without a proper conclusion, though Winget's portrayal maintained the series' signature intensity. This period underscored her enduring appeal in daily soaps, where she balanced high-stakes drama with personal challenges posed by the global health crisis.

Shift to streaming and diverse projects (2021–present)

Following her successful run in television, Jennifer Winget transitioned to streaming platforms, marking a shift towards more selective and diverse projects that aligned with the evolving Indian entertainment landscape. She reprised her role in Code M Season 2 (2022), continuing to portray the determined Komolika Chaubey in further investigations. In 2024, Winget starred in Raisinghani vs Raisinghani on , portraying the sharp and ethical Anushka Raisinghani in a riveting courtroom drama produced by Shoonya Army and . The series, which premiered on February 12, 2024, featured Winget opposite as her ambitious colleague Virat Raisinghani, exploring family dynamics and legal intrigue within the Raisinghani . In February 2025, Winget joined an untitled Netflix mystery thriller directed by Rensil D'Silva, set against the backdrop of Shimla. The ensemble cast includes Parineeti Chopra in her OTT series debut, alongside Tahir Raj Bhasin, Soni Razdan, and others, with the project delving into noir elements of suspense and deception. Shooting for the series wrapped in April 2025 and, as of November 2025, it remains untitled and unreleased. In late 2025 interviews, Winget hinted at potential collaborations, including with producer for new projects under . Reports as of November 2025 indicate she was approached for lead roles in high-profile shows, though specifics like Naagin 7 remain unconfirmed, with Priyanka Chahar Choudhary announced as the lead. Rumors from May 2025 suggested Winget's participation in Karan Johar's on Prime Video, potentially reuniting her with ex-husband , but as of November 2025, her involvement was not confirmed and did not materialize. As of 2025, Winget's net worth is estimated at ₹45–58 , bolstered by endorsements, selective roles, and her pivot away from daily soaps towards higher-paying digital and brand opportunities. This financial growth underscores her strategic career choices in an industry increasingly favoring streaming over traditional television.

Personal life

Marriage and divorce

Jennifer Winget married Karan Singh on April 9, 2012, in a private ceremony following their on-screen collaboration in the television series . The couple announced their separation in November 2014, citing compatibility issues and the pressures of their demanding careers in the entertainment industry. Their divorce was finalized on January 11, 2016, through mutual consent, marking the end of their approximately two-and-a-half-year marriage. In interviews from 2024 and 2025, Winget reflected on the dissolution, describing it as a result of "unfortunate timing" and acknowledging that both she and Grover were not fully prepared for marriage at that stage in their lives. She emphasized personal growth in the aftermath, noting how the experience reinforced her focus on self-reliance and professional independence. As of 2025, Winget has not remarried and has publicly prioritized her career and personal development over romantic pursuits. The separation drew significant media attention at the time, fueling speculation and rumors that temporarily affected Winget's public image amid her rising television career.

Family relationships and privacy

Jennifer Winget shares a close bond with her parents, Hemant Winget, a professional at , and Prabha Winget, a homemaker, whom she frequently credits for offering steadfast emotional support through her professional highs and personal difficulties. She maintains a strong with her elder brother, Winget, a businessman, and has occasionally highlighted their connection through family photos and glimpses. Winget has no children and, in recent interviews, has emphasized the importance of her , particularly her pet dogs like her late Breezer, whom she described as providing unconditional companionship and loyalty akin to family members. Amid her public career, Winget actively protects her by restricting content to professional updates and minimal personal disclosures, avoiding in-depth revelations about her daily life or relationships. In 2025, Winget engaged in family-inspired , at the Wildlife SOS Elephant Conservation and Care Centre in to support initiatives, underscoring her commitment to causes that reflect her personal values of and .

Public image

Media perception and controversies

Jennifer Winget was initially portrayed in the media as television's "girl-next-door," embodying a relatable and approachable image through her early roles and off-screen persona. Her casual posts and simple ethnic ensembles, such as a white kurti paired with a blue , highlighted this down-to-earth appeal, making her seem "just like one of us." This perception stemmed from her child artist beginnings and lead roles in shows like , where she adopted minimalistic, elegant styles that resonated with audiences. Her public image underwent a notable transformation following her portrayal of the obsessive and vengeful in (2016), evolving from a "simpleton" to a "glam " and "fierce" character. Media outlets praised the role for showcasing her as a stylish psychopath, with shimmery eyes and intense expressions that marked a shift to bold, boundary-pushing narratives. Specific roles like helped redefine her as versatile, moving beyond traditional saas-bahu tropes to more complex, edgy personas. Discussions around in Indian television gained traction in 2018, with Winget highlighted for her ability to handle diverse styles and characters, defying expectations of limited role types. However, her 2014 from fueled media controversies, including persistent rumors in 2015 that intensified after the couple filed for . The leak of their to the press in February 2016, just before Jennifer received her copy, amplified speculation and public scrutiny, which she described as having "malafide intent." In subsequent interviews, Winget opened up about the mental health toll of her divorce, revealing she felt "lost and confused" and chose to isolate herself from others to cope, rejecting pitying narratives that portrayed her as a "bechaari." By the early 2020s, media coverage commended her selective project choices, noting her preference for roles that allowed for character depth and innovation over routine television fare.

Endorsements and social influence

Jennifer Winget has established herself as a prominent figure in commercial endorsements, particularly with beauty and lifestyle brands. In December 2024, she was appointed as the brand ambassador for Pilgrim's skincare range, leveraging her pan-India appeal to promote products focused on natural ingredients and self-care. She has also endorsed brands such as BBLUNT for hair care and Skechers for footwear, alongside fashion collaborations that highlight her elegant style. These partnerships, combined with public appearances at events like Lakmé Fashion Week in 2025, have significantly contributed to her estimated net worth of ₹45–58 crore as of 2025. On social media, Winget wields considerable influence, boasting over 18 million Instagram followers as of November 2025. She actively uses the platform to promote fitness routines, sharing workout challenges and personal wellness journeys that resonate with her audience. Additionally, her posts advocate for women's empowerment, including messages on International Girl Child Day that emphasize strength, potential, and gender equality. This digital presence not only fosters fan engagement through live sessions and interactive stories but also positions her as a role model inspiring young actresses to pursue resilience and authenticity in their careers. Winget's advocacy extends to , where she has been a vocal supporter of efforts. As an avid lover, she volunteered at Wildlife SOS's Conservation and Care Centre in August 2025, participating in activities to aid rescued and raising about their . This involvement highlights her commitment to ending captive elephant abuse and promoting ethical tourism. Her broader economic impact includes earnings from endorsements and appearances, underscoring her value in the influencer market.

Filmography

Films

Jennifer Winget began her acting career as a child artist in Bollywood films during the mid-1990s. Her debut came in the family drama (1995), where she portrayed a young girl in a supporting role alongside and . This was followed by another child role as Tanu in the romantic comedy Raja Ko Rani Se Pyar Ho Gaya (2000), directed by and starring and . She continued with youthful roles, appearing as Pooja Sharma in the romantic drama (2003) at the age of 18, playing the sister of the lead character opposite Aishwarya Rai and . Winget's transition to adult roles in cinema culminated in her lead debut with (2018), a romantic drama directed by , where she played Kajal Kapoor, a divorced woman navigating love and self-discovery alongside Kohli's character. The film, which explores themes of second chances in relationships, received a quiet release primarily on streaming platforms like . Post-2018, Winget has maintained selective participation in feature films, with no major Bollywood lead roles, prioritizing her established presence in television and .
YearTitleRoleNotes
1995Young GirlChild artist; supporting role in romantic drama directed by .
2000Raja Ko Rani Se Pyar Ho GayaTanuChild artist; romantic comedy produced by R. Mohan.
2003Pooja SharmaSupporting role as lead's sister; romantic drama directed by .
2018Kajal KapoorLead role; romantic drama exploring post-divorce romance, directed by .

Television series

Jennifer Winget made her television debut as a child artist in the children's fantasy series (2000–2004), portraying the character Piya. Initially broadcast on before shifting to Star Plus, the show contributed to its popularity among young audiences through its magical storytelling elements. She appeared in 67 episodes during her tenure. Winget had brief roles in Kkusum (2003) as Simran and Kkoi Dil Mein Hai (2003) as Preeti. She gained early prominence with the recurring role of Sneha Bajaj in the long-running soap Kasautii Zindagii Kay (2004–2008) on Star Plus. In 2008, she played the lead role of Ganga Bhatia in the family drama on . In 2004, Winget took on her first lead role as the ambitious aspiring singer Kartika in the children's adventure series Kaarthika, which aired on for approximately three months, spanning 50 episodes produced by . The show followed Kartika's journey from a modest background in to pursuing her dreams in the music industry. Winget's breakthrough in youth-oriented dramas came with (2007–2010), where she portrayed Dr. Riddhima Gupta on Star One, replacing in 2009 and appearing in over 400 episodes until the series concluded. As a medical intern navigating romance and professional challenges at the fictional Sanjeevani hospital, the role solidified her as a leading actress in the genre, opposite co-stars like and later others. From 2013 to 2014, Winget starred as the strong-willed Kumud Sundari Desai in the romantic drama Saraswatichandra on Star Plus, appearing in all 443 episodes of the production adapted from Govardhanram Tripathi's novel. Her portrayal of Kumud, a resilient woman in a tale of love and societal constraints opposite Gautam Rode's Saraswatichandra, highlighted her ability to handle emotionally layered characters in a period setting. Winget returned to television in 2016 with the Beyhadh on , embodying the obsessive and multifaceted Maya Mehrotra across 273 episodes until 2017. The series explored themes of love, , and , with Maya's complex anti-heroine persona becoming one of Winget's most iconic roles, co-starring and . In 2018, she led Bepannah on as Zoya Naseem Siddiqui, a entangled in a web of suspicion and romance following her husband's death, running for about eight months with 186 episodes. Produced by Cinevistaas Limited, the romantic mystery paired Winget with Harshad Chopda as Aditya, focusing on themes of and redemption in a modern urban context. Winget's final major television appearance was a reprisal of Maya in (2019–2020) on TV, where the character sought vengeance after personal tragedies, but the series ended abruptly after 86 episodes in March 2020 due to external factors. This sequel maintained the thriller elements of the original while introducing new dynamics with as Rudra and , though it was cut short amid production challenges. As of November 2025, Winget has no ongoing commitments, having shifted focus away from daily soaps since her last broadcast role in 2020.

Jennifer Winget transitioned from traditional to over-the-top () platforms, embracing the flexibility of formats that allow for more nuanced character development in serialized . Her foray into marked a significant evolution in her career, aligning with the growing popularity of streaming services in post-2020. Winget's web series debut came with (Season 1: 2020; Season 2: 2021–2022), a drama on and , where she portrayed Major Monica Mehra, an army officer investigating complex cases. The series, produced by Marmot Pictures and , spanned 10 episodes in Season 1 and 10 in Season 2, earning praise for Winget's intense performance alongside and . Her next notable project was Raisinghani vs Raisinghani, a legal drama premiered on in 2024. In this series, she portrayed Anushka Raisinghani, a sharp yet ethically grounded lawyer navigating complex family dynamics and professional rivalries within her father's prestigious . The show, which explores themes of ambition, morality, and interpersonal conflicts in the legal world, consists of 102 episodes across one season, released in a weekly format that blends episodic cases with overarching narratives. Co-starring as her ambitious colleague Virat and as intern Ankita, the series received attention for Winget's commanding performance and the duo's on-screen chemistry. Following the success of Raisinghani vs Raisinghani, Winget appeared in an untitled mystery thriller series for , released in 2025. This project marked her entry into the global streaming giant's Indian original lineup, where she co-starred alongside , , , and . Produced by Siddharth P. Malhotra, the noir-style series promises a gripping narrative centered on and intrigue, with wrapping up in April 2025. Winget's role in this ensemble-driven thriller highlights her versatility in genre-shifting from legal dramas to high-stakes mysteries.

Music videos and guest appearances

Winget has made select appearances in music videos, blending her acting prowess with musical narratives. In 2018, she featured in the title song "" from the Phir Se..., performed by and , where she portrayed a central in the emotional storyline directed by . The track, composed by , highlighted themes of love and reunion, showcasing Winget's expressive performance alongside the lead cast. Her most recent music video venture came in 2023 with "Guli Mata," a bilingual Hindi-Arabic fusion track sung by and , presented by Anshul Garg. In the video, Winget played a in a tale of forbidden romance and cultural clash, opposite Lamjarred, earning praise for bridging Indian and Moroccan musical elements. The song's release marked a collaboration that resonated with audiences, blending traditional melodies with contemporary visuals. Beyond music videos, Winget has made notable guest appearances on popular comedy and promotional platforms. In 2016, she appeared on alongside co-stars and to promote her series , reprising her intense role as Maya Mehrotra in comedic sketches that highlighted the show's dramatic elements. The episode featured humorous interactions, including flirtatious banter with comedian , adding levity to her typically serious on-screen persona. As of November 2025, Winget's involvement in music videos and guest spots remains limited, with no new projects announced in these areas, focusing instead on endorsements and potential scripted roles.

Awards and recognition

Television accolades

Jennifer Winget has received notable recognition for her television performances, particularly through prestigious Indian awards ceremonies. Her breakthrough role as Kumud Sundari Desai in Saraswatichandra (2013–2014) earned her the Indian Television Academy (ITA) Award for Best Actress – Drama (Jury) in 2013, acknowledging her nuanced portrayal of a resilient village woman navigating societal constraints and personal dilemmas. This accolade highlighted her ability to blend emotional depth with cultural authenticity in a period drama produced by Productions. Additionally, for the same role, she secured the Indian Telly Award for Best Actress – Critics in 2014 at the 13th edition, further cementing her status as a leading talent in Indian television. Winget's critically acclaimed turn as the obsessive and psychologically complex Maya Mehrotra in the thriller series (2016–2017) garnered the ITA Award for – Drama in 2017, where she was praised for embodying a character driven by intense possessiveness and moral ambiguity. Her performance in the romantic drama (2018), playing the determined Zoya Siddiqui, led to the Gold Award for () in 2018, recognizing her chemistry and emotional range opposite . She also won the Indian Telly Award for in 2019 for , reflecting audience and critic appreciation for her versatile handling of grief and romance. Earlier, in 2013, Winget received the Boroplus Gold Award for Most Fit Actress, an honor celebrating her on-screen poise and physical embodiment of her characters. Winget faced multiple nominations for Bepannah across categories like Best Actress (Popular) at the ITA Awards 2018, underscoring the show's impact despite her established wins. Up to 2020, her television accolades include two ITA Awards and two Indian Telly Awards, with no further wins in television categories reported since then as she shifted focus toward digital platforms.
YearAwardCategoryWorkResult
2013Indian Television Academy AwardsBest Actress – Drama (Jury)SaraswatichandraWon
2013Boroplus Gold AwardsMost Fit ActressN/AWon
2014Best Actress – CriticsSaraswatichandraWon
2017Best Actress – DramaBeyhadhWon
2018Best Actress (Jury)Won
2019Won

Film and digital honors

Winget's contributions to Indian cinema have been limited primarily to supporting and child roles in the early 2000s, such as in Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat (1997), Raja Ko Rani Se Pyar Ho Gaya (2000), and (2003), for which she has not received notable awards or nominations. Her later film appearances, including Phir Se... (2015) and Life Reboot Nahi Hoti (2016), were also minor and unacclaimed in terms of honors. In the digital space, Winget has earned recognition for her lead performances in . For her portrayal of Major Monica Mehra, an officer investigating crimes in the ALTBalaji-ZEE5 crime Code M (2020), she received a nomination for (Web Series) - at the 2020. She was also nominated for in a Leading Role () at the 2020 Iconic Awards for the same role. Winget's digital acclaim continued with her role as advocate Anushka Raisinghani in the SonyLIV legal drama Raisinghani vs Raisinghani (2024), where she depicted a resilient navigating family and professional conflicts. For this performance, she won the Charismatic Performer of the Year award at the National Fame Awards 2024. Additionally, she was honored with the Best Versatile Actress award at the 11th International Iconic Awards 2025, highlighting her adaptability across genres in digital content.