Bhumi Pednekar on Body Positivity, Authenticity and Her Choice-Driven Career
Bhumi Pednekar appears on the May–June 2026 cover of Grazia and opens up about body positivity, authenticity and the career choices that have defined her. Known for taking unconventional roles, she has continuously reshaped what it means to be a leading woman in Hindi cinema.
Pednekar first broke through with Dum Laga Ke Haisha (2015), which earned her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut. Before acting, she spent six years as an assistant casting director, learning the industry from behind the scenes. Since then she has led films such as Toilet: Ek Prem Katha (2017), Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, Saand Ki Aankh and Badhaai Do (2022), building a reputation for strong, socially grounded performances.
Reflecting on her debut, Pednekar admits she initially expected a more conventional start. She remembers public surprise when her weight changed and how people asked if she was depressed, even though she was happy. Her passion for performing began early: by 13 she had told her mother she would become an actor, even if others did not take her seriously.
On balancing mainstream films with socially relevant stories, she says it comes naturally. She describes herself as empathic and principled, and states she has avoided roles where women lack agency. Pednekar is clear she would not take a role just for money.
She also speaks candidly about body positivity. “My body has to support me till I die,” she says, noting she still plans for the future—children and aging—and refuses to let negativity define her. For her, success today is simple: being her most authentic self.
