Preity Zinta refused a 600 crore inheritance and was recognized with a bravery award during her remarkable Bollywood journey, leaving a lasting impact on the industry and her fans. The story of Preity Zinta refused 600 crore fortune and received bravery award reveals the remarkable choices she made, her principles, and why she stepped away from cinema at the height of her career.
Early responsibility and a rise to fame
Preity Zinta’s life turned challenging early, as she took on family responsibilities after her father‘s passing when she was just 13. From these beginnings, she emerged as one of the standout actresses in Bollywood, making her mark with a successful debut in the film “Dil Se” alongside Shah Rukh Khan. Her charm and talent soon earned her roles in diverse films such as “Kal Ho Naa Ho,” “Veer Zaara,” “Lakshya,” “Salaam Namaste,” “Sangharsh,” “Koi… Mil Gaya,” “Kya Kehna,” “Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna,” “Chori Chori Chupke Chupke,” “The Last Lear,” and “Soldier,” showcasing her versatility. Competing with contemporaries such as Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, Rani Mukerji, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Bipasha Basu, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas, she carved out her place among Bollywood’s elite.
Turning down a massive inheritance from Shandar Amrohi
Preity Zinta’s reputation for candor and integrity was underlined by her response to Shandar Amrohi, the son of legendary filmmaker Kamal Amrohi. In 2011, Shandar Amrohi, reportedly viewing Preity as a daughter, announced his intention to leave his wealth—valued at Rs. 600 crores—to her, instead of his own children. Their relationship began at the Marriot Hotel, where Amrohi met Preity while she was in a relationship with Nes Wadia. Preity extended her support to Amrohi during familial disputes, which led him to view her as family and to bestow her with multiple gifts.
Despite the significant financial offer, Preity Zinta made it clear that she did not want any share of Amrohi’s inheritance. Following his death, she initiated legal proceedings against Amrohi’s sons, filing a complaint that stated she had loaned Rs. 2 crores for his medical care and requested that the amount be returned to her. Her choice stood as a testament to her values, emphasizing her preference for integrity over wealth.
Recognized for bravery amid underworld threats
Preity Zinta showed her fearless side while filming “Chori Chori Chupke Chupke” with Salman Khan and Rani Mukerji. During this period, producer Bharat Shah was accused of links to gangster Chhota Shakeel, who was believed to have invested in the film. The case was notorious in Bollywood, and many influential names in the industry distanced themselves from the controversy. Unlike her peers, Preity Zinta took a bold step by serving as a key witness, admitting that she had received threatening extortion calls from the gangster’s associates. For her courageous testimony and unwavering stance, she received the Godfrey Phillips National Bravery Award, setting her apart as someone who prioritizes truth and justice, regardless of personal risk.
Pursuing new paths at the height of her career
In the early 2000s, Preity Zinta led as one of Bollywood’s most sought-after actresses, frequently appearing in big-budget films and earning critical acclaim. However, at the age of 32, she decided to shift her focus away from acting. In 2011, she entered the business world by launching her own production company, PZNZ Media. She then expanded her interests to include sports, becoming a part-owner of a team in the Indian Premier League (IPL), thus cementing her presence in both entertainment and business spheres.
Personal milestones and transformations
Preity Zinta continued to make headlines after stepping away from acting. In 2016, she married Gene Goodenough in an intimate ceremony held in Los Angeles, which was attended only by close relatives and friends. Their family grew in 2021 when she welcomed twins, Jai and Gia, through surrogacy, marking a new phase in her personal life. These changes highlighted her willingness to pursue happiness and fulfillment both beyond the silver screen and within her private world.
The enduring impact of Preity Zinta’s choices
Preity Zinta’s journey—from her early challenges, through a period of professional dominance in Bollywood, to her transition into entrepreneurship and family life—reflects determination and integrity. Her willingness to refuse a 600 crore inheritance and her brave stand during a high-profile underworld scandal have made her a respected figure beyond cinema. As she charts her own course, Preity Zinta’s legacy continues to inspire, demonstrating that lasting respect is built not just by fame or fortune, but by the courage to live by one’s principles.
