Subhash K Jha 
In director Pulkit’s hardhitting sophomore feature film Bhakshak, which streams on Netflix from February 9, Bhumi Pednekar brings to life the role of a Patna-based television journalist who blows the lid on a child-abuse racket in a shelter home in Bihar.
Speaking of her compelling portrayal in Bhakshak Bhumi Pednekar says, “This is probably my best , along with Sonechiraiya. I am trying to do the best work possible,given the restrictions in our cinema where strong roles are hardly written for women. When the director Pulkit who has written the script with his wife, came to me with Bhakshak I was stunned.”
The real incident that happened in the town of Muzaffarpur in Bihar was of course known to Bhumi Pednekar. “I had read about the mass abuse of underage girls in Bihar. But after I came on board for Bhakshak I read up more details, they are in the public domain. It was horrifying beyond words. And it continues. It recently happened in Thane.We wish Bhakshak would create more public awareness about child abuse.”
The actress who has over the past five years acquired a reputation for quality cinema is all praise for her director. “I like working with new directors. They are filled with enthusiasm passion and dedication. The way Pulkit has shot Bhakshak, the production design and technical finesse…it is mindblowing.”
Bhumi Pednekar reveals that many real-life names had to be changed. “Sadly we had to change some of the place names and names of real persons for legal reasons. The place where the gruesome crime happens in a shelter home is ‘Munnawarpur’ Do you know we didn’t shoot the film in Patna and Bihar. We shot it mainly in Lucknow.”
Bhakshak Trailer
The trailer for Bhakshak introduces the dark side of a girl’s shelter home, run by Aditya Srivastava, aka Bansi Sahu. Bhumi takes up the case to expose the truth, going against everyone’s advice. The film is inspired by true events.
Talking about the film, Bhumi Pednekar recently told news agency ANI about her experience of stepping into the shoes of a journalist. She said, “Journalism is a difficult career…it needs a lot of courage to ask the right questions, especially to the people who are in power. To ask questions fearlessly definitely needs a lot of courage… I salute the journalists out there for doing their job with integrity and fearlessness. I have learned a lot by working on this film. I feel honoured.”
Bhumi Pednekar, the talented and versatile actress of Bollywood, has made a significant mark in the Indian film industry with her remarkable performances and unconventional choices. Beyond her on-screen persona, there are several intriguing aspects of her life that many may not be aware of. Let’s delve into some lesser-known facts about Bhumi Pednekar.
About Bhumi Pednekar
Early Life and Background
Bhumi Pednekar was born on July 18, 1989, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. She pursued her education at Arya Vidya Mandir School in Juhu, Mumbai, and later graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce from the University of Mumbai. Before venturing into acting, Bhumi worked as an assistant casting director at Yash Raj Films.
Entry into Bollywood
Bhumi made her acting debut in Bollywood with the critically acclaimed film “Dum Laga Ke Haisha” in 2015. Her portrayal of an overweight bride in the movie garnered widespread praise and earned her the Filmfare Award for Best Female Debut.
Versatility in Roles
Despite starting her career with a challenging role, Bhumi Pednekar has showcased her versatility by portraying a diverse range of characters on screen. From playing the role of a rural woman in “Toilet: Ek Prem Katha” to essaying the character of a sharpshooter in “Sonchiriya,” Bhumi has proved her acting prowess time and again.
Environmental Activism
Apart from her acting endeavors, Bhumi is actively involved in environmental activism. She launched an initiative called “Climate Warrior” to raise awareness about climate change and promote sustainable living practices among the masses. Bhumi also initiated the “One Wish For The Earth” campaign, encouraging people to take small steps towards preserving the environment.
Awards and Recognitions
Bhumi Pednekar’s stellar performances have earned her several accolades, including nominations at prestigious award ceremonies like Filmfare and Screen Awards. In addition to winning the Best Female Debut for her first film, she has received critical acclaim for her roles in movies like “Saand Ki Aankh” and “Bala.”
Family and Personal Life
Despite being in the limelight, Bhumi prefers to keep her personal life private. She shares a close bond with her family and often expresses her gratitude towards them for their unwavering support throughout her journey in Bollywood.
Social Media Presence
Bhumi Pednekar is quite active on social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter, where she shares glimpses of her personal life, promotes her projects, and spreads awareness about social issues close to her heart. Her engaging posts often resonate with her fans and followers.
Upcoming Projects
Fans of Bhumi Pednekar can look forward to seeing her in several exciting projects in the near future. From starring in romantic comedies to intense dramas, Bhumi continues to challenge herself with diverse roles that showcase her talent and versatility as an actress.
Conclusion
Bhumi Pednekar’s journey in Bollywood has been nothing short of inspiring. From her remarkable debut to her impactful performances and commitment to social causes, she has carved a niche for herself in the industry. As she continues to explore new avenues and push the boundaries of her craft, Bhumi remains a force to be reckoned with in Indian cinema.
FAQs
- Is Bhumi Pednekar related to any other Bollywood personalities?
- No, Bhumi Pednekar comes from a non-film background and is not related to any other Bollywood personalities.
- What is Bhumi Pednekar’s fitness mantra?
- Bhumi follows a disciplined fitness routine that includes a combination of cardio, strength training, and yoga to maintain her physique and overall well-being.
- Does Bhumi Pednekar have any upcoming projects?
- Yes, Bhumi has several projects lined up, including films and digital series, where she will be seen portraying diverse characters across genres.
- Has Bhumi Pednekar won any awards for her performances?
- Yes, Bhumi Pednekar has received several awards and nominations for her outstanding performances in various films, showcasing her versatility as an actress.
- How does Bhumi Pednekar contribute to environmental conservation?
- Bhumi Pednekar is actively involved in environmental activism and runs initiatives like “Climate Warrior” to raise awareness about climate change and promote sustainable living practices.
