Pooja Bedi, who became a household name in the early 1990s with films like Vishkanya and the youth classic Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar, was once seen as one of Bollywood’s boldest and most glamorous stars. However, despite her rising fame, she suddenly stepped away from the industry. In a recent interview, Pooja opened up about the deeply personal reasons behind her decision.
During a conversation on Dr Sheen Gurrib’s podcast, the actor and columnist reflected on her journey—from her upbringing to motherhood—and explained the turning point that led her to quit acting. According to Pooja, marrying into a strict and traditional Muslim family made it almost impossible for her to continue her film career.
She explained that her former husband, Farhan Furniturewala, belonged to a conservative family, where the idea of their daughter-in-law being a glamorous actress was unacceptable. “There were long discussions and disagreements. Both our families were already hesitant about our marriage, and I didn’t want further conflict. So I chose to walk away from acting,” Pooja said.
Although the couple defied social pressure to marry and later welcomed two children, their relationship eventually came to an end in 2003. Their divorce marked the beginning of one of the most emotionally challenging periods of Pooja’s life.
Recounting that painful chapter, she shared that between her late 20s and early 30s, she experienced a string of heartbreaking tragedies. She lost her grandmother to cancer, her pet passed away, the caretaker who raised her died, her mother was killed in a landslide, and her brother died by suicide. Amid this turmoil, her marriage also collapsed.
Also read: Aishwarya Rai’s Secret Diet Plan and Beauty Tips Revealed
“At 32, I was divorced, without alimony, and responsible for two young children. I was terrified,” she said. Pooja added that during those years, it felt as though every few months brought a new loss, leaving her emotionally drained.
Despite the overwhelming hardships, she eventually found strength in rebuilding her life from scratch. She began writing columns, which opened the door to new professional opportunities. Within a year, she says she regained financial stability and confidence.
What stood out in her journey was her decision not to demand anything during the divorce, even though she had helped her ex-husband grow his business. “There was no bitterness. I could have stayed or fought, but that wasn’t who I wanted to be. I needed to move forward, and I did,” Pooja said.
Her story today stands as an example of resilience—of how one can rise again even after life seems to fall apart.
https://t.co/mGfaGnwKe1#PoojaBedi on Quitting Bollywood and Rebuilding Life
— genxsoft (@genxsoftinfo) November 25, 2025
Pooja also became known for her strong views on parenting, relationships, emotional healing, and personal freedom. Over the years, she built a reputation as someone who embraces individuality and encourages others to do the same. Her voice resonated with many who looked up to her as a symbol of resilience, especially women navigating difficult marriages or unexpected life challenges.
She has also been actively involved in wellness and holistic living. Pooja launched initiatives promoting mental well-being and positive lifestyle choices, drawing from her own experiences of rebuilding her inner world. Her journey from being a glamorous actress to a self-made motivator reflects how pain can transform into purpose.
Today, Pooja Bedi continues to inspire people with her courage, transparency, and unwavering positive spirit. Her story is a reminder that setbacks—no matter how overwhelming—can become the foundation for a stronger, more empowered life. She remains an example of how one can rise again, not despite hardships, but because of them.
FAQs About Pooja Bedi and Her Life Journey
1. Why did Pooja Bedi quit Bollywood?
Pooja Bedi left Bollywood after marrying into a conservative Muslim family where continuing her career as a glamorous actress would have caused conflict. She chose to step away from films to avoid tension within her marital home.
2. Who was Pooja Bedi married to?
Pooja Bedi was married to businessman Farhan Furniturewala. The couple tied the knot in 1994 and divorced in 2003.
3. Did Pooja Bedi receive alimony after her divorce?
No. Pooja Bedi revealed that she did not receive any alimony after her divorce, despite supporting her ex-husband in building his business.
4. How many children does Pooja Bedi have?
Pooja Bedi is a mother of two children—daughter Alaya F, who is now a Bollywood actress, and son Omar.
5. What personal tragedies did Pooja Bedi face?
Between her late 20s and early 30s, Pooja faced multiple losses: her grandmother, pet dog, caretaker, mother, and brother passed away, all within a short period. This was also when her marriage ended.
6. What is Pooja Bedi doing now?
Pooja Bedi is currently involved in writing, wellness initiatives, motivational speaking, and promoting holistic living. She continues to inspire people with her resilience and positive outlook.
7. How did Pooja Bedi rebuild her life after divorce?
She began writing newspaper columns, which opened new career opportunities. Within a year, she regained financial stability and rebuilt her life through determination and self-growth.
8. Is Pooja Bedi still connected to Bollywood?
While she is no longer active in films, Pooja remains connected to the industry through her daughter, actress Alaya F, and through media appearances and interviews.
