Actor Bhumi Pednekar opened up about her cinematic journey and the lessons learned from challenges during her session titled “Power of Presence in Changing Industry” at the India Today Conclave Mumbai 2025. Known for her unconventional roles and commitment to meaningful cinema, Bhumi shared how rejection and obstacles shaped her resilience and determination.
“All the ‘no’s I heard growing up shaped me,” Bhumi said. “If someone said no, I challenged myself to prove them wrong. It gave me a personal sense of victory and courage.” The actor, who started her career at Yash Raj as a teenager, emphasized the transformative impact of films like Dum Laga Ke Haisha, which opened doors for her and allowed her to portray women in relatable, strong roles. Her subsequent films, including Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, Sonchiriya, Badhaai Do, Bhakshak, and The Royals, explored social issues, ethical journalism, and women in power, establishing her as a change-maker in cinema.
Bhumi also discussed her evolution beyond acting, including her love for fashion as a form of self-expression and the launch of her entrepreneurial venture—a beverage brand. She highlighted her fondness for Heartland cinema, the thrill of experimenting with dialects, characters, and real-life challenges, and the importance of freedom to shape her career and identity.
“This journey is about presence, purpose, and impact,” she concluded. “Every experience has humbled me, given me courage, and motivated me to keep exploring who I am through my work.”