The legacy of Vijay Mallya, once hailed as the “King of Good Times” and subsequently marred by scandal, continues to cast a long shadow over his family. Amidst the fallout of his father’s notorious scams and subsequent downfall, Sidhartha Mallya, the aspiring actor and scion of the United Breweries Group, embarked on a journey marked by both ambition and adversity.
Born to Vijay Mallya and Samira Tyabjee Mallya in 1987 in Los Angeles, California, Sidhartha’s upbringing was characterized by privilege and global exposure. However, his formative years were predominantly spent in England, where the family relocated after his birth. Sent to prestigious boarding schools like Papplewick School and Wellington College, Sidhartha excelled academically, culminating in a bachelor’s degree in business management from Queen Mary University of London.
Yet, Sidhartha’s pursuits extended beyond the realms of academia. Venturing into the corporate arena, he served as an assistant brand manager for beverage giant Diageo, before assuming the directorship of the Royal Challengers Bangalore IPL cricket franchise. His tenure witnessed innovative initiatives like “Green Initiatives,” underscoring his commitment to environmental sustainability.
However, Sidhartha’s aspirations transcended the confines of corporate boardrooms. A foray into the entertainment industry saw him explore various avenues, from fashion to acting. Making his runway debut at Lakme Fashion Week 2012 and later featuring in Indian Bridal Week, Sidhartha’s charismatic presence captured attention.
His transition to acting culminated in a debut role in the film “Brahman Naman,” portraying the cricket-playing jock Ronnie. Yet, amidst his professional endeavors, Sidhartha grappled with personal challenges, chronicled candidly in his autobiography, “If I’m Honest: A Memoir of My Mental Health Journey,” which delves into his battles with alcohol, depression, and familial discord.
