Bhumi Pednekar has been recognized as the Disruptor of the year at the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne.
Sharing her thoughts Pednekar said "I am deeply honoured and humbled to receive the Disruptor of the Year award at IFFM. This recognition is extremely heartening for me because I have never walked the beaten path. This award is also of great validation to me because it shows that the power of persistence in breaking barriers and challenging the status quo definitely pays off. I’m proud of all the films that I have done so far but I’m extra proud of Badhaai Do (2022) because it allowed me to voice my support to the LGBTQIA+ community in India.
Pednekar further added, “As a disruptor, I have always tried to redefine possibilities, shatter stereotypes, and pave new paths for change through inclusivity. This award is not just a celebration of my journey; it is a tribute to all the fearless souls who dare to dream differently and strive to make a positive impact on the world."
From her debut in Dum Laga Ke Haisha (2015), where she effortlessly embraced a non-stereotypical role, to subsequent performances that delved into others social themes in films like Badhaai Do, Dolly Kitty Aur Woh Chamakte Sitare (2019) and Toilet: Ek Prem Katha (2017), she has consistently chosen characters that challenge norms and amplify voices that often go unheard. Having worked in the Indian film industry for just 7 years, Pednekar has won 26 acting awards, making her one of the best actors that this country has ever seen.
She will next be seen in Thank You for Coming, The Ladykiller, Mere Husband Ki Biwi lined up for release.