Author Name: By Shilpi Madan
Published Date: 10-Jul-2023
In conversation with the actor on her wellness philosophy and her six releases in 2023.
She nails every first with frictionless ease. Actor Bhumi Pednekar, has been the first to essay roles of women with spine - small town crusaders, and game changers on screen. Think the overweight bride Dum Laga Ke Haisha, the social activism in Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, a closeted lesbian in Badhaai Do, septuagenarian sharpshooter in Saand Ki Aankh, a rural strongheart in Sonchirya…Now she joins the league of honour at MAC Cosmetics, with the brand’s global initiative, Viva Glam. The makeup giant has created and named a lipstick after its first ever Indian ambassador - Bhumi Pednekar, making her join the prized Viva Glam brigade of Arianna Grande, Rihanna, Miley Cyrus, Nicki Minaj, Elton John, Lady Gaga…to honour commitment to inclusivity and philanthropy.
Excerpts from a conversation:
How are you feeling right now?
I am very excited. It is such an honour, and a dream come true. As a teenager obsessed with the idea of beauty, for me to be able to own MAC products made me feel like I have really achieved something in life. All proceeds from the sale of the Viva Glam Bhumi Pednekar limited edition lipstick co-created by me and MAC, will go to charity. I am so excited to be working with a brand whose values and ethics resonate so strongly with me.
What does beauty mean to you?
It is a state of happiness, a state of appreciating myself. Beauty spells a therapeutic effect for me.
Define wellness
For me, the concept of wellness means a happy state of mind physically and mentally. Both go hand in hand to create that perfect balance. Wellness means feeling good about myself, taking care of my gut, eating what I like, looking after my skin, hair, and my spiritual wellbeing. In my profession, wellness is of prime importance.
What is your favourite wellness getaway?
I love the Six Senses Vana Retreat in Dehradun in Uttarakhand. I love the mountains. This wellness grove is in the middle of the Himalayas, and spells complete rejuvenation for me. Each time I get a few days break midst my shoot schedules, I take off for Vana.
Share with us your wellness routine
I drink a lot of water, skip gluten and refined sugar, and take good care of my skin, hair, and gut. My routine brings in overall wellness – spending time with my family, in the garden, with my pets, reading books, working out, and practising breathing techniques.
What is next for Bhumi?
I have six releases in 2023. Coming up next are The Ladykiller, Mere Husband ki Biwi, and Bhakshak. Playing a multitude of roles excites me, challenges me as an artist. I feel fortunate that as an actor I can live my dream of playing different roles, every day. God has been kind.