Tillotama Shome Biography: Age, Height, Family, Husband, Career & Achievements
Tillotama Shome is an acclaimed Indian actress renowned for her nuanced performances in both Indian and international cinema. Recognized for her roles in films like Monsoon Wedding and Sir, she has earned critical acclaim and several prestigious awards. Based in Mumbai, Shome is celebrated for her versatility, depth, and commitment to socially relevant storytelling.
Quick Facts
| Full Name | Tillotama Shome |
|---|---|
| Profession / Occupation | Actress |
| Birth Date | 25 June 1979 |
| Age | 45 (as of 2025) |
| Birth Place | Kolkata, West Bengal, India |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Famous For | Critically acclaimed roles in independent and mainstream cinema |
| Known For | Monsoon Wedding, Sir, Qissa, Delhi Crime |
| Ethnicity | Bengali |
| Zodiac Sign | Cancer |
| Height & Weight | 5 ft 3 in (160 cm), 54 kg (approx.) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Education | Lady Shri Ram College, University of Delhi; Master’s in Educational Theatre, New York University |
| Religion | Hinduism |
| Marital Status / Spouse | Married to Kunal Ross |
| Children | None (as of 2025) |
| Relatives | Jaya Bachchan (mother-in-law) |
| Hobbies | Reading, Travelling, Theatre |
| Employer / Organization | Independent / Freelance |
| Years Active | 2001 – Present |
| Net Worth (Estimated) | INR 7–10 crore (approx.) |
Early Life & Education
Tillotama Shome was born on 25 June 1979 in Kolkata, West Bengal, India, into a Bengali family. Her father served in the Indian Air Force, which led her to spend her formative years in various cities across India. Shome developed an early interest in literature and the performing arts. She completed her undergraduate studies at Lady Shri Ram College, University of Delhi, where she actively participated in theatre productions. Pursuing her passion further, she moved to the United States and earned a Master’s degree in Educational Theatre from New York University, gaining international exposure and honing her craft.
Career Journey
Tillotama Shome’s acting career began with a breakthrough role in Mira Nair’s Monsoon Wedding (2001), where her sensitive portrayal of Alice won widespread praise. After this success, she worked with theatre groups in New York before returning to India to pursue a full-time career in acting.
Rise to Prominence
Shome’s filmography is marked by powerful performances in both independent and mainstream films. She delivered standout roles in Shadows of Time (2004), Gangor (2010), and Qissa (2013), the latter earning her international recognition. Her performance in Sir (2018) was particularly lauded and won her the Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actress.
Recent Work and Streaming Success
In recent years, Shome has made a significant mark in digital content, with memorable roles in acclaimed web series such as Delhi Crime and Chhapaak. She continues to choose roles that challenge societal norms and bring depth to female characters, cementing her reputation as one of India’s finest contemporary actresses.
Personal Life
Tillotama Shome is married to Kunal Ross, who is the son of Jaya Bachchan’s sister, making Shome a relative of the Bachchan family. The couple is known to keep their personal lives private. Shome is passionate about literature, theatre, and social causes. She actively supports initiatives related to education and women’s empowerment.
Awards & Achievements
- Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actress – Sir (2021)
- Best Actress Award, UK Asian Film Festival – Raahgir (2019)
- Best Actress, New York Indian Film Festival – Qissa (2014)
- National Film Award for Best Actress – Sir (2021)
- Multiple nominations at international film festivals
Physical Statistics
| Height | 5 ft 3 in (160 cm) |
|---|---|
| Weight | 54 kg (approx.) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Dark Brown |
| Figure Measurements | 34-28-34 inches (approx.) |
Quotes
- “I believe stories have the power to change hearts and minds.”
- “Acting is about empathy—stepping into someone else’s shoes and seeing the world anew.”
- “I choose roles that challenge me and speak to the realities around us.”
Controversies
As of 2025, Tillotama Shome has maintained a controversy-free public image. She is respected for her professionalism and commitment to meaningful cinema, with no major scandals or disputes reported in the media.
Favorites
- Favorite Actor: Irrfan Khan
- Favorite Actress: Meryl Streep
- Favorite Book: To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee
- Favorite Cuisine: Bengali and Mediterranean
- Favorite Destination: New York City
- Favorite Hobby: Reading and Theatre
Salary & Net Worth
As a sought-after actress in both films and web series, Tillotama Shome’s estimated net worth is between INR 7–10 crore as of 2025. Her earnings come from acting projects, brand endorsements, and theatre work. According to industry sources, she reportedly charges INR 20–40 lakh per film, depending on the project’s scale.
Interesting Facts
- Tillotama Shome once worked as a teaching artist in New York before returning to India.
- She is an active supporter of independent cinema and often participates in film festivals worldwide.
- Shome is fluent in Bengali, Hindi, and English.
- She is related to the Bachchan family through marriage.
- Her debut film Monsoon Wedding was nominated for the Golden Globe and won the Golden Lion at Venice Film Festival.
Social Media Links
- Instagram: @tillotamashome
- Twitter/X: @TillotamaShome
- Facebook: Tillotama Shome Official
- LinkedIn: Tillotama Shome
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Tillotama Shome best known for?
- Tillotama Shome is best known for her roles in Monsoon Wedding, Sir, and Qissa, as well as her impactful performances in Indian and international films.
- How did Tillotama Shome start her acting career?
- She began her career with theatre in Delhi and made her film debut in Mira Nair’s Monsoon Wedding (2001).
- Is Tillotama Shome married?
- Yes, she is married to Kunal Ross, who is related to the Bachchan family.
- What awards has Tillotama Shome won?
- She has received the National Film Award and Filmfare Critics Award for Best Actress, among other international honors.
- Which web series has Tillotama Shome appeared in?
- She has starred in popular web series such as Delhi Crime and Chhapaak.
- What is her educational background?
- She graduated from Lady Shri Ram College, University of Delhi, and holds a Master’s degree from New York University.
Conclusion
Tillotama Shome’s journey from Kolkata to global cinema exemplifies dedication, talent, and a passion for storytelling. Her impactful performances continue to inspire audiences and aspiring actors alike. If you found this biography insightful, please share it with others who admire Indian cinema and strong female artists!
