Pooja Bedi Admits: “I Relied on Cleavage to Cover My Acting Flaws”

Despite having appeared in a limited number of Bollywood films, Pooja Bedi has left a lasting impression with her striking presence and bold personality. Recently, the actress attended the FICCI Flo event in Hyderabad, where she surprised the audience with her frank admissions about her career. Reflecting on her early years, Bedi didn’t hold back, calling herself a “terrible” actress in the 1990s.

Pooja made her Bollywood debut in 1991 with Vishkanya, but it was her role in the popular film Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikander alongside Aamir Khan that gained her recognition. Looking back on those days, she openly confessed, “I was a terrible actress. I often used my cleavage to distract from my poor acting.” She also revealed that acting was never her true passion, and she took the role in Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikander primarily because she needed the money.

Embracing the ‘Sex Symbol’ Label

Known as a sex symbol in the 1990s, Bedi shared her perspective on this label during the event. Initially uncomfortable with the title, she eventually decided to embrace it. “If I’m going to be called sexy, I might as well own it and be the best at it,” she said. Her statement reflects the confidence and boldness that have marked her presence in Bollywood.

The topic of nepotism came up at the event, and Bedi, the daughter of renowned actor Kabir Bedi and mother of actress Alaya F, shared her views. She expressed surprise at how nepotism is often used as a criticism only in the entertainment industry. “People use the word ‘nepotism’ when an actor’s child enters films, but the same word isn’t used for doctors or businesspeople who follow in family footsteps,” she pointed out. Her thoughts offer an interesting perspective on the debate that has stirred Bollywood in recent years.

Pooja Bedi’s daughter, Alaya F, has been carving her own path in Bollywood. Alaya made her debut in JawaPooja Bedi Admits: “I Relied on Cleavage to Cover My Acting Flaws”ani Jaaneman (2020) and recently starred in the big-budget action film Bade Miyan Chote Miyan (2024) alongside Akshay Kumar and Tiger Shroff. Pooja expressed pride in her daughter’s journey, acknowledging Alaya’s hard work in an industry where she herself faced challenges.

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Pooja Bedi’s Journey in Bollywood

Bedi’s reflections at the FICCI Flo event reveal the complexities of her Bollywood journey, marked by self-awareness and honesty. Her openness about her career choices and her unapologetic acceptance of her public image highlight her strength. Fans appreciate her candid nature, as she remains true to herself, even decades after her Bollywood debut.