Bhumi Satish Pednekkar opens up about choosing socially-driven films, sparking national conversations through cinema, and using her platform for meaningful representation

Actor Bhumi Satish Pednekkar recently spoke candidly about body shaming, activism, and the responsibility of cinema during an NDTV panel discussion, reflecting on how her upbringing shaped both her worldview and the stories she chooses to tell on-screen. Speaking about her inclination towards socially-driven narratives, Bhumi shared that advocacy and activism have always been deeply rooted in her upbringing.

“I think it’s a mixture of films. Since childhood, I have been more inclined towards advocacy and activism because I was born and raised in that kind of family,” she said. Recalling her childhood, the actor revealed how discussions around awareness and responsibility were a part of her everyday life at home. “Papa ke sath jab nashta karte the school ke pehle tab humara GK test hota tha — who is the Chief Justice of India, Home Minister of India — we were asked such questions. If the nation were hit by a natural calamity, we’d be asked to collect funds to donate to any organisation,” Bhumi shared.

She added that her parents instilled values of empathy, responsibility, and activism from a very young age, something she believes has directly influenced her film choices over the years. “Since childhood, my parents have instilled a sense of responsibility, empathy, advocacy and activism. And I feel this has impacted my film choices because I believe cinema is very powerful,” she said. Bhumi further spoke about balancing entertainment with meaningful storytelling, emphasizing how films can become a catalyst for larger societal conversations.

“Of course, the first aim is to entertain the audience, but if we can shift the thinking, then we’re incredibly lucky. My efforts have always been towards choosing stories that are balanced. Through cinema, we get the opportunity to spark national conversations without making the audience feel uncomfortable,” she explained.

Calling Toilet: Ek Prem Katha one of her favourite examples, Bhumi highlighted how the film contributed towards changing societal mindsets around sanitation and hygiene in India. “Culturally, we were unable to accept the fact that a home can include a washroom — because we believe that a home is a sacred space. But the film changed the mindset that a home can include a washroom,” she said, adding that the film eventually became a part of the Swachh Bharat Mission.

The actor also expressed her desire to continue taking up stories that offer meaningful representation across communities. “And I desire to do more such films, be it across LGBTQIA+ community or anything. I feel I have ample opportunities because I’m telling a public story,” Bhumi said.

Ending on a powerful note, the actor reflected on the responsibility that comes with visibility and stardom. “As an actor, if I cannot offer them the right representation when they are paying an X amount to watch me on-screen, then what’s the point of this stage, the success?” she concluded.