If you've binge-watched the latest season of Netflix's 'Fabulous Lives vs Bollywood Wives', you'll undoubtedly agree that Shalini Passi has stolen the spotlight. And if you haven't, social media chatter has likely convinced you of her presence. The third season introduced three new Delhi socialites – Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, Shalini Passi, and Kalyani Saha Chawla – to the original Bollywood wife squad of Seema Sajdeh, Maheep Kapoor, Bhavana Panday, and Neelam Kothari. But Shalini, a philanthropist, art collector, and artist, has managed to outshine them all with her quirks, and unapologetic self-love. Her every move, from haute couture ensembles to an impressive bag collection, made her the undisputed star of the season.
The ultra-rich lifestyle that makes us feel poor
Remember when we thought the original Bollywood wives were living in luxury? Think again. Shalini's lifestyle is so opulent, it makes the others look like they're scrimping. From hosting Met Gala-esque events to owning a 20,000-square-foot mansion in Delhi, Shalini's life is a constant reminder of just how much money there is in the world. And let's not forget her staff who WhatsApps the kitchen to prepare warm water for her before singing classes, her entourage arrives before her at vacation destinations to arrange everything.
Self-love: The Shalini way
If there's one thing Shalini's not afraid of, it's self-love. She's the living embodiment of Geet from Jab We Met, constantly proclaiming, "Main apni favorite hoon" (I'm my favorite). Every episode, she showers herself with praise, confidently declaring her life more meaningful than others. It's either refreshing or delusional – you decide. But ofcourse, if she will not live in her lala land who will.
Her work... or so she says
Shalini constantly talks about her busy work schedule, leaving us wondering what exactly she does besides art collection. Even on vacation, she can't stop bragging about all the other important things she could be doing. It almost feels like she's trying to validate herself by constantly talking about her work or claiming to be an expert in ten different fields.
This became particularly evident during a lunch with Riddhima Kapoor and Kalyani Saha. When Kalyani casually noted that Shalini's Instagram suggests she frequently attends lunches, Shalini got way too defensive. She insisted that she's too busy for lunch dates and even showed her Instagram to prove it. Her reaction was a bit over-the-top, and it seemed like she was desperately trying to convince everyone that she's not just a superficial socialite.
A self-proclaimed jack of all trades
Shalini's a jack-of-all-trades, claiming to be an expert in everything from gymnastics to painting. She's always on the go, learning new skills like singing, dancing, and yoga. While we're not sure how good she actually is at all of these things, we did get a glimpse of her singing abilities, which let's just say weren't exactly impressive. But that didn't stop Shalini from confidently declaring that she's ready to sing for Dharma Productions.
The eccentric queen
Shalini's eccentricity is truly something to behold. She's the kind of person who insists on sitting on cushions, drinks champagne through a straw to protect her pearly whites, and wears designer dresses in the rain. She changes outfits multiple times a day, and she makes sure her bags are always facing the right direction. She breaks her Karva Chauth fast with raw juices and giggles like a teenager after just one drink. Shalini's antics are so over-the-top, that it's hard to look away. Who needs to watch the other wives when we've got a goldmine of entertainment right here?
The naivete... or is it just a front?
Shalini's personality is a bit of a paradox. On one hand, she seems like the most innocent person in the world, oblivious to the drama around her. On the other hand, she's so confident it's almost delusional. It's like she's wearing a pair of rose-coloured glasses, refusing to see the negativity in the world.
She's always claiming to be above gossip and confrontation, saying she has better things to do and doesn't want to ruin her skin. But is she really as naive as she pretends to be? Or is she just putting on a show? It's hard to say. One thing's for sure: Shalini's confidence is either admirable or delusional, depending on who you ask.
Shalini’s bags
Shalini's bags deserve their own episode. From Judith Leiber's Starfish bag to the TV Screen Clutch Bag, her collection is staggering. A bag museum, anyone?
Let's face it: 'Fabulous Lives Vs Bollywood Wives' is a guilty pleasure show where we watch the lives of the super-rich and their ridiculously first-world problems. And Shalini Passi takes it to a whole new level of ridiculousness. Shalini brings a fresh dose of absurdity to the show. You'll never relate to her life or her problems, but that's half the fun.
Shalini Passi has single-handedly revived interest this season. Love her or mock her, she's undeniable entertainment gold.
See Pics: Shalni Passi & Bollywood Wives Look Stunning At Manish Malhotra's Diwali Party