Ratlam witnessed a vibrant celebration of media and creativity during the Malwa Media Fest held on January 24th and 25th, 2025. Adding a touch of Bollywood glamour to the occasion was actress Saumya Pandey, who graced the event and shared her insightful perspectives on women’s representation in cinema. Hailing from Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, Pandey encouraged young individuals to perceive parental advice as guidance rather than a burden. Currently, she is producing a Rs 100 crore movie with the renowned filmmaker duo Abbas-Mustan on an OTT platform.
From Sports Enthusiast to Bollywood Star: Saumya’s Journey
When asked about her journey into acting, Saumya revealed that her initial aspirations were far from the silver screen.
“Acting was never my first goal. It all began with sports,” she shared. Growing up in Chhatarpur, Jabalpur, Badamalanga, and Bundelkhand, she pursued hockey, badminton, and volleyball. As a child, she often visited her maternal grandmother’s small house in Pratapgarh, Uttar Pradesh, and aspired to create a better life for herself.
Her father, a police officer, played a crucial role in shaping her worldview. Observing injustices like child labour and domestic hardships made her determined to make a difference. Initially, she aspired to join the civil services as an IAS or IPS officer, but fate had other plans.
During her time in college in Jabalpur, she faced a turning point. Encouraged by her teachers, she participated in a modeling event at her fresher’s party. Despite her initial hesitations—having never worn heels or used makeup—she took a leap of faith. The experience changed her perception, showing her that the stage and camera could be powerful mediums for societal change.
Championing Hindi and Cultural Roots in Bollywood
Unlike many in the industry who adapt to westernized norms, Saumya takes immense pride in her Hindi roots.
“Bollywood is not a university with fixed rules. It’s your values that set you apart,” she emphasized. She cited actresses like Janhvi Kapoor and Yami Gautam as examples of those who stay true to their cultural heritage. Initially, her fluency in Hindi made her appear older than her age in Mumbai, but she embraced a balance of Hindi and English to navigate the industry while retaining her linguistic pride.
Family’s Reaction to Her Career Shift
Coming from a disciplined background, convincing her family about her unconventional career choice was a challenge.
“When I told my father I was pursuing modeling, he asked, ‘What is that?’” she recalled humorously. Initially, he wasn’t convinced and assumed it was a short-lived phase. But Saumya was determined—she spent three years excelling in modeling, winning showstopper titles, and even training as an air hostess. Eventually, she made the bold decision to move to Mumbai.
Her father, though skeptical, supported her in his own way. “He never said no outright but always made me wait a year before fulfilling any request. At the time, it felt frustrating, but today, I realize how much it taught me about discipline and patience,” she reflected.
Navigating Struggles in Mumbai and Entering Cinema
Saumya’s journey in Mumbai wasn’t easy. The first six months were spent finding a place to live, facing countless struggles, and adapting to the competitive environment.
“I had no acting experience. I started with modeling and later joined theatre. Mumbai can be overwhelming, and many people lose sight of their dreams amidst the distractions,” she shared.
Her perseverance paid off when she received a call from Mukesh Chhabra Casting Company for an audition. “I had to speak in Haryanvi, but I ended up mixing multiple languages. Yet, it was entertaining, and I cleared the audition,” she teased, keeping the project details under wraps.
Advice for Aspiring Actors from Small Towns
For young dreamers from rural backgrounds, Saumya’s advice is clear—Mumbai is not the only destination for success.
“You can start your journey in your hometown too. Families may not always understand initially, but if you’re passionate and determined, they will eventually come around. The world criticizes until you succeed, but once you do, they celebrate you,” she concluded.
Saumya Pandey’s journey is a testament to resilience, cultural pride, and the power of dreams. As she continues breaking barriers in Bollywood, she remains an inspiration for many aspiring actors from small towns across India.