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Bhumi Pednekar on embracing stereotypes in her film roles: 'I want to be queen of heartland cinema'

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Actress Bhumi Pednekar, who has carved a niche for herself in the film industry, has continued to select roles that reflect the diverse experiences that Indian women have. The actress discussed her feelings about being pigeonholed for her roles in socially driven movies.


During a conversation at the News18 SheShakti 2024 event, Bhumi talked about the idea that she is stereotyped for these kinds of roles and discussed the factors that influence her movie choices. The actress addressed the idea of being typecast. She shared, “I want to be the queen of heartland cinema. I have worked very hard to earn that, and mujhe toh mere desh ki kahaniyan bolni hai. I want to represent every woman in that spectrum, from every walk of life and every strata of society.”



Bhumi said being a stereotype in movies that focus on social issues is not a barrier, but rather a chance. “Honestly, being stereotyped as far as my films are concerned is a boon.” Bhumi shared that she is happy with this element of her work, but she still wants to grow as an actor. The actress added that she does not wish to stereotype themselves as an artist. She aspires to continually evolve and has been fortunate in recent years to collaborate with filmmakers who challenge them. However, she expresses a preference for stories characterized by simplicity, where fundamental needs and issues are addressed. She shared that this is where she believes she flourishes the most as an actor.


Regarding the selection of films with compelling social topics, Bhumi credits her career and perspective to her debut, ‘Dum Laga Ke Haisha’. “That film charted my way forward. After doing it, I realized how powerful cinema can be. The reaction I received from audiences, especially from women who had never seen themselves represented on screen, was overwhelming,” she shared.


Bhumi, who is passionate about using film to change the world, revealed that her decisions are influenced by her choices that socially matter. “I truly believe in working for the betterment of society. I think I attract these kinds of films, and filmmakers think of me when there’s a story with a message of change or reform. I don’t want to shout that my films are meant to create social impact, but that’s the kind of cinema I love and will continue to do. It’s also the need of the hour because cinema is very powerful, and we have to use it in the right way.”


On the work front, Bhumi Pednekar was last seen in the OTT film ‘Bhakshak’. It was based on the journey of a journalist, who investigated a case of abuse against young girls.

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