Swaroop Sampat

Swaroop Sampat (born 3 November 1958) is an Indian actress, model, producer, educator and author who emerged from a Bhatia family in Gujarat, then part of Bombay State. The daughter of Bachu Sampat, a noted Gujarati theatre actor, and Mrudula Sampat, a surgical oncologist, she was exposed early to both the performing arts and academic rigor, a duality that would shape her multifaceted career. After winning the Femina Miss India Universe title in 1979, she represented India at the Miss Universe pageant, launching a successful modeling stint that included campaigns for brands like Shringar kumkum, and paving the way for her entry into Hindi cinema with films such as Naram Garam and Nakhuda (both released in 1981). Her breakthrough on the small screen arrived with the beloved sitcom Yeh Jo Hai Zindagi (1984), where she portrayed the witty wife of Shafi Inamdar’s character, a role that cemented her status as a household name and demonstrated her knack for blending humor with relatable domestic narratives. Beyond acting, Swaroop pursued academic excellence, earning a Ph.D. in Education from the University of Worcester, where her doctoral thesis investigated the use of drama to enhance life‑skills in children with learning disabilities. This scholarly work culminated in the 2010 publication Learning Disabilities in a Nutshell, a guide praised by actor Aamir Khan for its insightful approach to dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, and dyspraxia. As a trainer and workshop facilitator, she travels across India conducting teacher‑training programs, and was appointed by Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi to head a statewide educational initiative for children. Her commitment to inclusive education earned her a spot among the top ten Global finalists for the Varkey Foundation’s Global Teacher Prize, reflecting her influence beyond the entertainment industry. Married to veteran actor Paresh Rawal since 1987, the couple shares two sons, Aniruddh and Aditya, and often collaborate on theatrical productions, underscoring a partnership that blends personal devotion with professional artistry.