‘Had To Reconnect With Myself’: Bhumi Pednekar On 9-Month Acting Break After The Royals Backlash

Bhumi Pednekar, known for her strong performances in movies like Dum Laga Ke Haisha and shows like The Royals, shared that harsh criticism of her recent show made her take a nine-month break from acting.

She says the experience helped her pause, think, and focus on growing personally.

Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter India, Bhumi said she hadn’t been on a film set since June 2025. “There was a lot of trolling, a lot of bots. But there was also constructive criticism. That experience made me take some drastic decisions in my life, one of which was to take a break,” she said.

The actress explained that working continuously for 10 years had taken a toll on her physically, emotionally, and mentally. From gaining 30 kg for her debut role in Dum Laga Ke Haisha to preparing for complex characters, Bhumi says she felt emotionally drained. “I had completely lost perspective of who I am as an actor and as a person. I needed to step back and reconnect with myself,” she added.

Focusing on Self-Growth and Stepping Back from the Spotlight

During her break, Bhumi focused on self-improvement and life experiences. She watched films, read books, traveled extensively, and even took a course at Harvard University. She also spent time with her family, worked on her physical and mental health, and developed her business, Backbay, a premium, eco-friendly natural mineral water brand she co-founded with her sister, Samiksha Pednekar.

Bhumi revealed that she had reduced her public presence, saying no to movies, award shows, fashion events, and even signing cheques. “I wanted to experience what it feels like to be by myself. If I lost everything, would I survive? And I know I will,” she said.

Reconnecting and Returning to Acting

The actress also took inspiration from Imran Khan, who stepped away from films for years and made a successful return. Bhumi said her break helped her reconnect with her craft and regain confidence. “I was broken. I was completely done. Now, I’m replenished and ready to work,” she said.

Bhumi is set to return to acting in March 2026 with a courtroom drama exploring sexual violence against women and marginalized communities. Before that, audiences will see her in the crime thriller series Daldal, releasing on Prime Video India on January 30, where she plays Mumbai top cop Rita Ferreira.