Bollywood actress Bhumi Pednekar is facing a wave of online criticism, not just for her recent films, but also for what many perceive as a change in attitude and public demeanor. A recent video clip from a film event, which went viral across social media, has intensified the backlash. It shows Bhumi being hostile towards an individual, who was helping her out.
In another old footage, Pednekar was on stage with stand-up comedian and influencer Harsh Gujral, who also featured in her film Mere Husband Ki Biwi. During their interaction, Bhumi appears to abruptly tell him, “Tu niche ja” (“You go down”), while pointing towards the side of the stage.
Though short, the clip has been widely circulated, with many viewers calling out what they interpret as arrogant or dismissive behavior. What seems to have further irritated netizens is how Bhumi ignored Gujral’s presence altogether after the remark. In the video, she continues interacting with the crowd and co-star Arjun Kapoor, without so much as acknowledging Gujral again.
She Didn’t Even Look at Him After That”
Fans and influencers alike have commented on the awkwardness of the moment. Some observed that Gujral was visibly taken aback but maintained composure. Others pointed out that even if unintentional, the snub reflected a larger trend of insiders ignoring or sidelining newcomers, creators, or influencers unless they carry significant celebrity clout.
A Shift in Public Image
But the video is just one part of a bigger pattern that netizens are calling out. Many say Bhumi Pednekar no longer feels like the grounded, relatable actor they fell in love with during her early roles in films like Dum Laga Ke Haisha, Shubh Mangal Saavdhan, or Toilet: Ek Prem Katha. Recent films have not fared well, and critics argue that her shift toward glamorous roles lacks the emotional depth that once defined her performances.
Social media users have also noted her increased focus on stylized, often revealing outfits and high-fashion red carpet appearances. While reinvention is part of every actor’s journey, many longtime followers feel that Bhumi is leaning too heavily into external transformation, at the cost of her earlier authenticity.
Also Read: Royal Romance Unveiled: Bhumi Pednekar and Ishaan Khatter’s Memorable Dialogues from The Royals
“We Miss the Old Bhumi”
Comments like “Fame has gotten to her head”, “She’s trying too hard to be glamorous”, and “Where is the Bhumi who spoke for real women?” have flooded Instagram and Twitter. Some fans suggest that the actor might be under pressure to rebrand herself in a competitive industry, especially as box office hits have become elusive.
However, there’s still a clear sense of goodwill. People aren’t rooting against Bhumi, they’re asking her to remember what made her stand out in the first place: simplicity, sincerity, and depth.
What’s Next?
With upcoming projects in the pipeline, including The Royals on Netflix, there may still be a chance for her to recalibrate both her roles and her rapport with the public.
After all, Bollywood fans are quick to critique, but just as quick to embrace a genuine comeback.
