Early Life and Cultural Roots
Mandana Karimi was born on May 19, 1988, in Tehran, Iran, into a diverse cultural background. Her father has Indian ancestry, and her mother is Indian. Growing up in Tehran, Mandana was exposed to a blend of Iranian and Indian cultures, which later influenced her multifaceted career. Reflecting on her upbringing, she once shared, “I had come to India many times, visiting my family or for holidays.” This early connection to India would play a pivotal role in her future endeavors.
Venturing into the World of Fashion
Mandana’s professional journey began as an air hostess, but her aspirations soon led her to the world of modeling. In 2010, she accepted a three-month modeling contract in Mumbai. Recalling that period, she said, “I had a different experience, staying without my family. I absolutely loved it! Work was great, but at that time, I had other contracts around the world.” By 2013, Mandana made the decisive move to Mumbai to pursue acting, marking the beginning of her association with India’s entertainment industry.
Her striking features and charismatic presence quickly caught the attention of major brands. Mandana appeared in television commercials alongside Bollywood luminaries such as Shah Rukh Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor, Shahid Kapoor, and Arjun Kapoor. These high-profile endorsements solidified her position in the Indian modeling scene.
Transition to Acting and Reality TV Fame
Mandana’s foray into Bollywood began with a guest appearance in the 2015 film “Roy.” That same year, she took on a more substantial role in “Bhaag Johnny,” followed by a part in “Main Aur Charles,” where she portrayed Charles Sobraj’s assistant. However, it was her participation in the reality TV show “Bigg Boss 9” that catapulted her to widespread fame. Entering the house in October 2015, Mandana’s candid demeanor and resilience resonated with audiences, leading her to become the second runner-up of the season.
In 2016, she starred in the adult comedy “Kyaa Kool Hain Hum 3,” further showcasing her versatility as an actress. Despite these successes, Mandana later revealed that acting was not her true passion. She confessed, “Acting was a job I never loved, nor this industry. I am grateful for the time I spent there, but it wasn’t something I was hungry for or crazy about.”
Personal Challenges and Resilience
Mandana’s personal life has been marked by both joyous and challenging moments. In July 2016, she got engaged to Indian businessman Gaurav Gupta, and the couple married in early March 2017. Embracing her husband’s culture, Mandana converted to Hinduism and celebrated their union with a traditional Hindu wedding. However, the marriage faced difficulties, leading her to file a domestic violence case against her husband and his family in July 2017. Although she later withdrew the case in an attempt to reconcile, the couple eventually divorced in 2021.
These personal trials tested Mandana’s resilience, but she emerged stronger, channeling her experiences into personal growth and new ventures.
A New Chapter: Embracing Design and Education
In a significant career shift, Mandana decided to leave the entertainment industry to pursue her passion for interior design and education. After completing a year-long course in interior design, she began working actively in the field and took on roles as a visiting professor at various institutes. She explained, “I became a model at such a young age and had to support myself, but I always missed the fact that I couldn’t go back to school.” A friend’s involvement in interior design inspired her to explore the profession, and she soon found fulfillment in this creative outlet.
Mandana’s new routine involves managing design projects and teaching, leaving little time for her previous pursuits. She noted, “I have projects, events, and my school that I’m focused on currently.” This transition to a structured “9-to-5” job brought significant changes to her life, but she embraces them wholeheartedly.
Mandana’s Vision: Inspiring Through Design and Lifestyle
Through her work in design and education, Mandana aims to inspire others to pursue their passions and embrace change. Her journey from a model and actress to a design professional and educator exemplifies the power of following one’s true calling. She encourages others to seek fulfillment beyond societal expectations and to prioritize personal growth.
Mandana’s story is a testament to the courage it takes to change paths and the rewards that come from aligning one’s career with personal passions. Her dedication to design and teaching reflects her commitment to creating beauty and sharing knowledge, inspiring many to pursue their dreams with determination and authenticity.
Current Endeavors and Future Aspirations
As of 2025, Mandana continues to thrive in her roles as an interior designer and educator. She remains dedicated to her projects and students, finding joy in the tangible impact of her work. Reflecting on her journey, she shared, “My life has changed so much, but I’m loving it.”
Looking ahead, Mandana aspires to expand her design portfolio and influence in the education sector. She is exploring opportunities to collaborate with international design firms and plans to develop workshops that blend design principles with personal development. Her vision is to create spaces and experiences that not only appeal aesthetically but also enrich the lives of those who engage with them.
Conclusion
Mandana Karimi’s journey from the glitz of Bollywood to the creative realms of design and education is a compelling narrative of self-discovery and transformation. Her willingness to embrace change, confront challenges, and pursue her true passions serves as an inspiration to many. Mandana exemplifies that it’s never too late to redefine one’s path and that true fulfillment comes from aligning one’s work with personal values and interests. Do follow her on Instagram.
