Bollywood saw her as a star but behind the spotlight Poonam Dhillon built a legacy few know

Before becoming a film star, Poonam Dhillon won the Miss Young India title in 1978 at just 16. This beauty pageant victory caught the attention of legendary filmmaker Yash Chopra, who offered her a role in Trishul (1978), marking the beginning of her acting career. Though her screen time was brief, her charm stood out — and she was soon cast as the lead in Noorie (1979).