Shilpa Shetty began her career as a model, participating in several beauty pageants, including Miss India International 1990. Her early television appearances include the popular Hindi serial "Champa" (1993) and the Zee TV show "Kissa Meri Family Kisa" (1995). Her breakthrough role came with the 1999 film "Bade Mian Chhote Mian," which marked the beginning of her successful film career.