Celebrity makeup artist Roop Sandhu has built a career working with prominent names in Punjabi and Bollywood entertainment. Hailing from Bhikhiwind in Punjab's Tarn Taran district, Sandhu says an unexpected opportunity on a film shoot helped set her on a path that has now continued for almost a decade. During her Melbourne visit, she spoke to SBS Punjabi about working with celebrities, the influence of social media, skincare, and the importance of earning respect as a makeup professional.
Roop Sandhu never set out with a plan to work with Bollywood and Punjabi stars.
Hailing from Bhikhiwind in Punjab’s Tarn Taran district, Sandhu says her childhood interest in makeup gradually turned into a career after an unexpected opportunity to work on a film shoot.
Speaking to SBS Punjabi during her Melbourne visit, Sandhu said, "I have spent almost nine years in the industry, working with prominent names including Neeru Bajwa, Sunanda Sharma, Nimrat Khaira, Anmol Gagan Maan; as well as Bollywood actresses including Dia Mirza, Mallika Sherawat, Urvashi Rautela and Mouni Roy."
"Celebrity makeup comes with its own challenges, particularly because the work is often done for cameras and screens," she said.
She also said celebrity skin is not fundamentally different from an average person's, and good skincare remains the foundation of good makeup.
Understanding individual skin texture and choosing products accordingly is more important than simply buying expensive or well-known brands.Roop Sandhu, Celebrity makeup artist
Speaking about the beauty industry’s changing landscape, Sandhu said social media has created new opportunities for makeup artists by helping them showcase their work and connect with clients.
At the same time, she acknowledged the pressure, criticism, and constant judgement that can come with being visible online.
“Makeup artists invest years, money, and hard work into building their careers and should be treated with the same respect as professionals in other fields,” she said.
Listen to the full conversation with Roop Sandhu through the SBS Punjabi podcast.
🔊 Find all our podcasts and stories that matter here at SBS Punjabi Podcast Collection.
