Bhumi Pednekar: Self-Love, Liberation & a Life-Changing Role

Bhumi Pednekar, known for her bold and unconventional film choices, has carved a niche in Bollywood by portraying characters that challenge societal norms. From her debut as Sandhya in Dum Laga Ke Haisha to her recent empowering roles in Thank You For Coming and Badhaai Do, the actress has consistently chosen parts that resonate with her personal journey of self-discovery. 

In a recent interview, the actress opened up about the characters that have shaped her both professionally and personally. 

 

‘Sandhya Made Me Fall in Love with Myself’ 

Reflecting on her debut role, Bhumi revealed, “The character closest to my heart has to be from my first film, Dum Laga Ke Haisha. That girl changed me. She made me fall a little more in love with myself and helped me deal with my insecurities." 

She acknowledged that self-doubt is an ongoing battle, adding, “It’s a never-ending journey. With every passing year, the nature of insecurities changes. Fortunately, my characters often become a form of intervention for me." 

Choosing Roles Centred on Liberation & Authenticity 

Bhumi’s filmography reflects her commitment to stories about empowerment and self-acceptance. “I resonate most with roles like those in Thank You For Coming and Badhaai Do—films about liberation, standing your ground, and being your authentic self," she shared. “These themes matter deeply to me because I’ve been on that path myself over the last decade." 

Unlike many actors who gravitate towards glamorous roles, the actress prioritises relatability, bringing real-life struggles and triumphs to the screen. 

What’s Next for Bhumi? 

Fresh off her performance in the royal drama The Royals, where she played the sharp and charismatic Sophia Shekhar, Bhumi is now gearing up for Daldal, a thriller that promises yet another nuanced performance. Known for her fearless choices, fans eagerly await her next transformation.