Sonali Bendre was born on 1 January 1975 in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. She began her career as a model after being selected through the Stardust Talent Search and subsequently entered the Hindi film industry.
She made her acting debut with Aag (1994) opposite Govinda. Her debut performance earned her the Filmfare Award for New Face of the Year, marking the beginning of a successful career in Hindi cinema.
Her major breakthrough came with Diljale (1996). She subsequently appeared in commercially successful films including Major Saab (1998), Duplicate (1998), Zakhm (1998), Sarfarosh (1999) and Hum Saath-Saath Hain (1999).
Sonali also expanded her career beyond Hindi cinema. She appeared in Tamil films such as Kadhalar Dhinam, and Telugu films including Murari, Indra, Khadgam, Manmadhudu and Shankar Dada MBBS. She also acted in the Marathi film Anahat.
Her performance in Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai (2000) earned her a Screen Award for Best Supporting Actress. She also appeared in films such as Tera Mera Saath Rahen, Love Ke Liye Kuch Bhi Karega, Kal Ho Naa Ho and Chori Chori.
Apart from films, Sonali has had a significant career in television. She has appeared as a judge and presenter on programmes including Indian Idol and India's Got Talent, and also starred in the television series Ajeeb Dastaan Hai Yeh. She later appeared in the acclaimed web series The Broken News.
Sonali married filmmaker Goldie Behl in 2002, and the couple have a son, Ranveer Behl.