Preity Zinta refused Rs 600 crore gift; rivaled Aishwarya Rai & Rani Mukerji, but left Bollywood for IPL

The 2025 IPL final saw Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) finally lifting the trophy after 18 long years, defeating Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a nail-biting encounter. While RCB fans celebrated, PBKS supporters were left heartbroken—not just by the loss, but by the emotional sight of co-owner Preity Zinta tearing up once again in the stands.

For many, Preity’s journey in IPL represents more than just cricket. It’s a story of sacrifice, bold decisions, and unwavering passion. Once a reigning queen of Bollywood, she left behind a flourishing film career at just 32 to plunge into the world of IPL.

A Bollywood Icon at Her Peak

Preity Zinta wasn’t just a glamorous star—she was known for her acting chops, charm, and powerful screen presence. Films like Kal Ho Naa Ho, Veer-Zaara, Dil Chahta Hai, and Koi… Mil Gaya established her as one of the most versatile actresses of her time. At her peak, she was often compared with contemporaries Aishwarya Rai and Rani Mukerji, both of whom had their own massive fan bases and critical acclaim.

 

 

 

 

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Unlike many, Preity often chose unconventional roles and characters that stood out. Whether it was the bold journalist in Lakshya or the unwed mother in Kya Kehna, she never shied away from experimenting.

Walking Away from Stardom for IPL

In 2008, when the Indian Premier League launched, Preity Zinta made headlines by becoming the youngest owner of an IPL team—Punjab Kings (then Kings XI Punjab). Many were surprised at her decision to step away from the film industry at such a young age. But for Preity, it was more than a business move—it was a leap of faith.

Despite investing heavily in her team emotionally and financially, Preity’s franchise has yet to win an IPL trophy even after 18 years. Still, she has remained one of the most passionate and visible team owners, often seen cheering, celebrating, and sometimes even crying for her team.

The Rs 600 Crore Gift She Turned Down

In a lesser-known chapter of her life, Preity once made headlines for rejecting a staggering Rs 600 crore inheritance. Shandar Amrohi, son of the legendary filmmaker Kamal Amrohi (Pakeezah), shared a deep bond with the actress. In 2011, he publicly declared that he intended to leave his entire estate—estimated at Rs 600 crore—to Preity, whom he considered a daughter.

However, Preity gracefully declined the offer, stating that while she was grateful for his love and affection, she couldn’t accept such a huge gift. Her gesture won her widespread admiration, reinforcing her image as someone grounded in integrity.