In an interview with Bollywood Bubble, Sonam recalled her first meeting with Yash Chopra, where she lied about her age to secure work.Though she was only 13.5 years old, she claimed to be 18, knowing that younger girls often struggled to find roles. Later, when preparing for a shoot in Switzerland, Yash Chopra asked her to bring her school leaving certificate for the passport application, revealing her true age.
The veteran actress shared how she nervously returned to school to get her leaving certificate, only to be scolded by the principal and given disapproving looks by the teachers. Despite the challenges, she managed to get the certificate and handed it over to Yash Chopra. Upon seeing it, he was shocked to learn she was just 13.5 years old and regretfully informed her that he couldn’t cast her because of her age.
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Sonam revealed that she was nearly removed from Vijay due to her age, but she pleaded with Yash Chopra, explaining how important the opportunity was for her. After much convincing, Yashji finally agreed, marking the beginning of her journey in the film industry.
Khan explained that she changed her name because Yash Chopra admired Anil Kapoor‘s daughter’s name, Sonam. He believed an actress should have a short and sweet name, and since he liked the name Sonam, he suggested the change. Interestingly, both Bakhtavar and Sonam mean the same thing, making the transition fitting.
