Bhumi Pednekar recently had a whirlwind one-day trip to Calcutta, which was filled with work and no play. Although she didn’t get a chance to experience the city, she was delighted to take back lots of mithai (sweets) with her. When we met her at ITC Sonar after she finished her professional commitments, she looked fresh-faced and radiant in a simple chikankari pastel kurta. We settled down for a long and relaxed conversation.
Bhumi admitted that her first trip to Calcutta should have been longer, but due to her busy schedule, she couldn’t stay for more days. She expressed her desire to visit the city for promotions but was unable to do so in the past due to other commitments. Despite not being able to try the variety of food she had planned, Bhumi was excited to take back mithai, especially her favorite, kheerkodom.
She mentioned how she had always heard and read about Calcutta’s art and rich history and hoped to experience the city soon. As someone who loves to travel, Bhumi also shared about her recent visits to Dubai and London during her break. Although these destinations may not be as exciting for a travel enthusiast, she enjoyed the food there and valued the time off from work. The break helped her reconnect with the joy and purpose of her work as an actor.
Reflecting on the past eight years since her debut film “Dum Laga Ke Haisha,” Bhumi acknowledged that her journey hasn’t been easy, but she considers herself lucky to have received fantastic opportunities. She believes she is just getting started and is looking forward to the next decade of her career. Over the years, she has evolved not only as an actor but also as a person. Bhumi emphasized that her physical attributes may change, but she is confident and not confined by her appearance.
Discussing her debut film, Bhumi mentioned how she gained almost 30kg for her character and realized the impact of “Dum Laga Ke Haisha” in retrospect. She appreciated her co-star Ayushmann Khurrana for sharing the limelight and supporting their film. Bhumi recalled her first day on set, feeling nervous and uncertain but drawing strength from her insecurities. She emphasized her emotional attachment to films like “Badhaai Do,” “Sonchiriya,” and “Saandh Ki Aankh,” which received positive responses from the audience.
When asked about playing a gay woman in “Badhaai Do,” Bhumi expressed her belief that such roles align with her personal opinions and give her a platform to promote causes she cares about. She acknowledged the pressure of social media but now uses it more for personal expression rather than adhering to a formula. Bhumi finds social media educational and enjoys the mix of knowledge and lighter content it offers.
Bhumi shared that her mindset regarding self-acceptance and embracing her true self gradually changed over time. Initially conflicted between conforming to others’ expectations and being true to herself, she now prioritizes her own satisfaction and happiness. She expressed that while there are good and bad days, she doesn’t let negative opinions bring her down.
Known as a climate warrior, Bhumi explained that her awareness of climate change developed from a young age. She highlighted the urgent need for climate change action and emphasized that it is a question of survival for all. Bhumi practices sustainability in her daily life by avoiding single-use plastic, practicing a circular economy at home, and being conscious of water usage, even on set.
Bhumi Pednekar shared her experiences, growth, and passions, expressing her excitement for the future of her career and her commitment to promoting causes she believes in, including environmental sustainability.
