Introduction

​Bhavna Vaswani is a psychologist and social worker. She is also known as the wife of filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan. Born in India, Bhavna’s family moved to Uganda, where she spent her early years. Due to political unrest, they relocated to Hong Kong and later to the United States. From a young age, Bhavna had a passion for helping others. She pursued psychology at New York University, where she met M. Night Shyamalan. They married in 1993. Bhavna earned her PhD in clinical developmental psychology and worked as a therapist. However, she felt a deeper calling towards social work. In 2001, she and her husband founded the M. Night Shyamalan Foundation. The foundation supports leaders working to eliminate barriers caused by poverty and social injustice. Bhavna’s commitment to philanthropy reflects her dedication to making a positive impact in the world. ​

Early Life and Background

Birth and Origin

Bhavna Vaswani was born in India to parents who were originally Ugandan British citizens. Her parents returned to India for her birth to ensure she had a connection to their homeland. After her birth, the family went back to Uganda, where Bhavna spent the initial year of her life. ​

Migration Journey

In the early 1970s, under the regime of Idi Amin, Asians were expelled from Uganda. This forced Bhavna’s family to leave the country. They first relocated to Hong Kong, then a British colony, where her father established an import/export business. Bhavna attended a local school, adapting to the British educational system. However, after her father’s business faced challenges, the family moved to the United States when Bhavna was 17.

Family Dynamics

Bhavna grew up with three siblings: an older sister, a younger sister, and a brother. Her father passed away in August 2007, and her mother later returned to India. Bhavna and her siblings remain in the United States, maintaining close family ties. Her mother’s deep religious beliefs and altruistic values significantly influenced Bhavna’s commitment to helping others. ​

These experiences shaped Bhavna Vaswani’s perspective, instilling resilience and a profound dedication to social work and philanthropy.

Educational Pursuits

Early Aspirations

From the age of 14, Bhavna Vaswani knew she wanted to be a therapist. She was the friend others confided in, often helping them through their problems. Once, she even took in a friend who had run away from home. Her older sister noticed this and told her about therapy as a profession. This guidance led Bhavna to pursue a career in psychology.

Academic Achievements

Bhavna began her studies in psychology at New York University. There, she met M. Night Shyamalan, who was studying film. They married in 1993. She continued her education at Bryn Mawr College, earning both a master’s degree and a PhD in clinical developmental psychology. After completing her doctorate, Bhavna worked as a therapist in Philadelphia, counseling young victims of sexual abuse.

Personal Life

Meeting M. Night Shyamalan

Bhavna Vaswani met M. Night Shyamalan while both were students at New York University. Their shared interests and values led to a deep connection, culminating in their marriage in 1993. ​

Family Life

The couple has three daughters:​

• Saleka: Born in August 1996, Saleka is a talented musician. She began with classical piano but later transitioned to R&B. Her debut album, “Seance,” was released in 2022. ​
• Ishana: Following in her father’s footsteps, Ishana is an emerging filmmaker. She made her directorial debut with the horror film “The Watchers,” starring Dakota Fanning, which premiered in June 2024. ​
• Shivani: The youngest, Shivani, maintains a more private life, with fewer public details available about her pursuits.​

Cultural and Religious Influences

Bhavna’s diverse upbringing across India, Uganda, Hong Kong, and the United States exposed her to various cultures and traditions. This rich background has deeply influenced her personal values and family life, fostering a profound appreciation for diversity and a commitment to humanitarian efforts.

Professional Career

Therapeutic Practice

After completing her PhD in clinical developmental psychology, Bhavna Vaswani began her career as a therapist. She worked in the counseling centers of Swarthmore College and St. Joseph’s University, providing support to students facing various challenges. Her dedication to mental health extended to counseling young victims of sexual abuse, demonstrating her commitment to aiding vulnerable populations. ​

Transition to Social Work

Despite her impactful work in therapy, Bhavna felt a calling toward broader social initiatives. In 2001, she and her husband, M. Night Shyamalan, co-founded the M. Night Shyamalan Foundation. The foundation aims to support leaders and organizations addressing barriers created by poverty and social injustice. This transition allowed Bhavna to expand her impact from individual therapy to global humanitarian efforts, reflecting her deep-seated altruistic values. ​

Philanthropic Endeavors

Night Shyamalan Foundation

In 2001, Bhavna Vaswani and her husband, M. Night Shyamalan, co-founded the M. Night Shyamalan Foundation. The foundation’s mission is to support emerging leaders who work to eliminate barriers created by poverty and social injustice in their communities. By investing in these leaders, the foundation empowers communities to lift themselves out of poverty and combat social inequities. ​

Global Outreach

Bhavna’s commitment to humanitarian efforts has led her to engage with communities worldwide. The foundation has been active in regions such as Africa, Central America, and India, supporting initiatives that address local challenges and promote sustainable development. ​

Focus on Modern-Day Slavery

One of Bhavna’s significant commitments is addressing human trafficking and exploitation. Through the foundation, she supports efforts to combat modern-day slavery, focusing on empowering vulnerable populations and advocating for their rights. ​

Bhavna Vaswani’s philanthropic endeavors reflect her dedication to creating a more just and equitable world by addressing systemic issues and empowering individuals and communities.

Community Engagement and Wellness

Vibe Vault Fit

In addition to her philanthropic endeavors, Bhavna Vaswani co-owns Vibe Vault Fit, a boutique fitness and wellness studio located in Pennsylvania. This establishment offers a variety of classes and programs aimed at promoting physical health and mental well-being within the community. ​

Dance Fitness and Mental Well-being

At Vibe Vault Fit, Bhavna, affectionately known as “Dr. B,” leads dance fitness classes that blend her passion for movement with her expertise in psychology. Her sessions are designed to be inclusive and enjoyable, encouraging participants to embrace dance as a means of enhancing both physical fitness and mental health. Dance therapy, as practiced by Bhavna, utilizes movement to support emotional, cognitive, and physical integration, offering benefits such as improved mood, reduced stress, and increased self-awareness. ​

Through her role at Vibe Vault Fit, Bhavna Vaswani continues to inspire individuals to prioritize holistic health, demonstrating the profound connection between body and mind.

Public Appearances and Media

Red Carpet Events

Bhavna Vaswani frequently accompanies her husband, M. Night Shyamalan, to various film premieres and industry events. Notable appearances include the premiere of “After Earth” at the Ziegfeld Theatre in New York City on May 29, 2013. She also attended the New York premiere of “Old” at Jazz at Lincoln Center on July 19, 2021. More recently, Bhavna joined her husband at the premiere of “Knock at the Cabin” in New York City on January 30, 2023. These events highlight her supportive presence alongside her husband during significant moments in his filmmaking career.​

Interviews and Features

Bhavna Vaswani has participated in interviews where she discusses her personal and professional life. In a conversation with Kanika Chadda-Gupta, Bhavna delved into her journey, sharing insights into her roles as a psychologist, philanthropist, and fitness enthusiast. Additionally, she has been featured in articles highlighting her contributions to the M. Night Shyamalan Foundation and her involvement in community initiatives. These engagements offer a deeper understanding of Bhavna’s multifaceted endeavors and her commitment to making a positive impact.

Influence on Family

Daughters’ Careers

Bhavna Vaswani and M. Night Shyamalan have three daughters, each pursuing their own paths:​

• Saleka: Born in 1996, Saleka is an R&B singer and songwriter. She studied Literary Arts and Music at Brown University and released her debut single, “Clarity,” in September 2020. ​
• Ishana: The middle daughter, Ishana, has followed in her father’s footsteps into filmmaking. She directed two episodes of the second season of M. Night Shyamalan’s series “Servant” and made her feature film directorial debut with “The Watchers,” a horror film starring Dakota Fanning, which premiered in June 2024. ​
• Shivani: The youngest daughter, Shivani, maintains a more private life, with fewer public details available about her pursuits.​

Supportive Parenting

Bhavna’s upbringing and values have profoundly influenced her children’s pursuits. Her commitment to education, arts, and social justice has provided a nurturing environment that encourages creativity and empathy. This supportive foundation has enabled her daughters to explore and excel in their respective fields, reflecting the family’s dedication to personal growth and societal contribution.

Conclusion

​Bhavna Vaswani has made significant contributions across various fields. As a psychologist, she has provided therapy and support to individuals in need. Through the M. Night Shyamalan Foundation, she has championed initiatives addressing poverty and social injustice. Her co-ownership of Vibe Vault Fit reflects her commitment to holistic health, blending physical fitness with mental well-being. Her dedication has positively impacted many communities and individuals.​

Currently, Bhavna remains active in her philanthropic and wellness endeavors. She continues to lead dance fitness classes at Vibe Vault Fit, promoting the connection between physical activity and mental health. Through the foundation, she supports emerging leaders tackling pressing global challenges. Her ongoing work exemplifies a steadfast commitment to fostering positive change in society.

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