In an industry where glitz often overshadows reality, Pooja Hegde has never shied away from speaking her truth. The pan-Indian superstar, known for her spectacular performances across Hindi, Telugu, and Tamil cinema, recently sat down for an unfiltered conversation on In The Ring with Filmfare. Hosted by Jitesh Pillai, Editor-in-Chief of Filmfare, the show gives audiences an insider’s look into the lives of top film personalities—and Pooja’s revelations have already set the internet on fire.
“I Had to Fight for Every Role” – Pooja on Nepotism
Addressing the ever-controversial issue of nepotism, Pooja pulled no punches. She spoke about the struggles of being an outsider in an industry where lineage often dictates opportunity:
“Opportunities aren’t the same for everyone. While some actors collaborate with top filmmakers early in their careers, others like me have to hustle for every role. Even today, some directors don’t respond to my messages, while a star kid could walk into a meeting effortlessly. But I’m not ashamed of my journey.”
Her honesty struck a chord with many, as she reaffirmed her commitment to making it on her own terms—a testament to her relentless spirit and undying passion for cinema.
Breaking Barriers: The Fight for Gender Equality in Film
Pooja also weighed in on gender equality in Bollywood, a topic that continues to dominate industry discussions. She believes that real change begins with fair recognition and equal respect:
“Equality isn’t about taking away from anyone; it’s about ensuring that credit and respect are shared fairly. Every role in a film, from the biggest star to the newest actor, is part of the story that unfolds on screen. When we celebrate the collective effort, we create an environment where both creativity and respect can thrive.”
As conversations around pay disparity, stronger female-led narratives, and better opportunities for women in cinema gain momentum, Pooja’s insights are both timely and impactful.
Success Beyond Stardom: Pooja’s Mantra for Achieving Greatness
Unlike many who measure success in box office numbers and awards, Pooja believes in a deeper, more meaningful definition of achievement:
“Success is not about fitting into a mold; it’s about breaking free and embracing your authenticity. True growth begins when you stop seeking validation and start celebrating what makes you different. The courage to stand out, take risks, and own your journey often becomes the spark that ignites greatness. After all, legacies are not built by following footsteps but by leaving your own.”
Her words serve as a powerful motivation for young dreamers and aspiring artists, proving that authenticity will always outshine conformity.
Mental Health in Showbiz: “Healing is Feeling”
In a rare moment of vulnerability, Pooja also addressed the importance of mental well-being, particularly in an industry that thrives on constant scrutiny and pressure:
“Healing doesn’t mean avoiding sadness or difficult days. It means allowing yourself to feel every emotion, to cry when you need to, and then to gather the strength to move forward. Trusting the universe, the people who support you, and yourself is what turns pain into resilience. Every tear shed is a reminder that you’re human, and every step forward is a testament to your strength.”
Her take on embracing emotions and prioritizing mental health resonates with many, especially in a time when mental well-being is finally being recognized as an integral part of success.
