Archive · 7 Jun 2025
Sonali Bendre Recalls Welcoming Michael Jackson in India in 1996
In 1996, Bollywood actress Sonali Bendre had the special opportunity to welcome Michael Jackson to India for his 'HIStory World Tour'.
She was asked by Raj Thackeray's wife, Sharmila Thackeray, and agreed on the condition of getting good concert tickets for her and her friends.
Bendre greeted Jackson at the Mumbai airport, performing an Indian ritual.
This event was a highlight of Jackson's tour and is still remembered fondly.
At the time, Bendre was at the peak of her acting career with hits like 'Diljale', 'Sapoot' and 'Rakshak'.
Sonali Bendre welcomed Michael Jackson to India in 1996 during his 'HIStory World Tour'.
Bendre performed an Indian welcoming ritual at the Mumbai airport.
Raj Thackeray and his wife, Sharmila Thackeray, were involved in organizing the welcome.
Bendre agreed to the welcome in exchange for concert tickets for herself and friends.
The event occurred during a successful year for Bendre's Bollywood career.
- Who
- Sonali Bendre and Michael Jackson
- What
- Sonali Bendre welcomed Michael Jackson to India.
- When
- 1996
- Where
- Mumbai Airport
- Why
- Sonali Bendre was asked to welcome Michael Jackson to India by Raj Thackeray's wife.
- Location
- Mumbai
- Event Year
- 1996
- Event
- Michael Jackson's 'HIStory World Tour'
- Sonali Bendre's Profession
- Bollywood actress
- Person involved
- Sharmila Thackeray