Bhumi Pednekar’s outlook on the perfect wedding, perfect partner, and the secret to long-lasting friendships...

Bold and unapologetically fierce, Bhumi Pednekar has become synonymous with shaking up conventional ways of being, especially with her movie choices. And that has been right from her debut in Bollywood, in Dum Laga Ke Haisha, where she essayed the role of an overweight wife, to Badhaai Do, where she plays the role of a lesbian girl who enters a marriage of convenience with a gay man. Real, rebellious, and socially relevant, Pednekar’s penchant for unique storytelling has earned her respect for her craft.

Against this backdrop, one can’t help but be curious about her opinion on love and personal relationships. For this special interview for Brides Today, the actor decked up in some of the most stylish bridal wear of the season, against the backdrop of a summer picnic...the perfect ode to the outdoor, summer wedding! And when we asked her about her own wedding, whenever it takes place, Bhumi is quick to respond with views that are delightfully fresh and au courant—from hosting a completely sustainable wedding to wanting to play the part of “the sexy bride”. Read this special piece to know all about Bhumi’s outlook on the perfect wedding, perfect partner, and the secret to long-lasting friendships...

Nandini Bhalla: What is your definition of romance?

Bhumi Pednekar: Earlier, I was more willing to please the other person. Love, in my books, was about submission...and that’s probably why my previous relationships did not work. Today, however, I view love as compatibility, being good friends, and getting along with each other. I don’t want to be with someone who tries to dim my ambition, judge me, or complain that I don’t have time for them, as that has happened in the past where someone was insecure just because I was being photographed. I want to inspire my partner with my ambition, not have them feel threatened by it.

NB: How do you resolve conflict in a relationship?

BP: In the past, I would try to sort things out immediately. But over the years, I have learnt to be more patient. Now, I give people space...and I like my own space, too. I have learnt not to react to a situation immediately as being patient can help resolve many issues.

NB: Are you seeing someone currently?

BP: No.

NB: Is it tough to date as a celebrity?

BP: I won’t say it’s tough, but you do have to be careful because one can be vulnerable. Which is why if I meet someone outside the film fraternity, I am a bit wary...I don’t want to be anyone’s claim to fame.

NB: What is your definition of a good relationship?

BP: Security, loyalty, and love.

NB: What would your own wedding be like?

BP: I’ve thought about it a few times... Earlier, I imagined it to be a large affair, because I have such a large family and they love to party! But now, I might want a smaller, simpler affair. My wedding must be sustainable and plastic-free...it hurts my heart to see the wastage that takes place at weddings. I would like to show people that you can have a beautiful wedding while still being eco-conscious. For instance, decorate with local flowers instead of flying down exotic blooms from different cities or countries. Or use only reusable and recyclable items. I might still end up having lots of functions at my wedding, but I will ensure that it is a sustainable celebration.

NB: What do you imagine yourself wearing as a bride?

BP: I’ve always imagined myself as a sexy bride. So, I’ll wear something that is sensual but also traditional. And I love jewellery, like many girls do... I’ll wear one of my mother’s heirloom pieces, for sure.

NB: What kind of wedding guest are you?

BP: I love weddings! I make a really good bridesmaid because I take the role very seriously. At weddings, I love to dance...and I absolutely love to eat!

NB: Do you ever do your own make-up at shoots?

BP: I really enjoy wearing make-up, and I believe that I know my own face the best. Luckily, I work with a great team of make-up artists, and I trust them to do a good job, but occasionally, if I’m feeling a bit stressed, I ask them to let me do my own make-up. It calms me down; it’s almost therapeutic for me.

NB: What’s the one make-up product you swear by?

BP: “Lip balm...it is such a multitasker. I use a tinted one, which I apply on my lips, cheeks, and eyes. And if I’m allowed to pick another product, I’d say concealer.

NB: What are your views on sisterhood?

BP: Sisters and girlfriends are the best ever! In fact, my girlfriends are like my sisters, and my best friend is extremely close to me as we have known each other since we were two-years-old...I’m even going to include her in my will! Even though she lives in America now, distance has not changed our bond at all.

NB: Have you made good friends in Bollywood?

BP: There is this misconception that you can’t make friends in Bollywood. The reality is that people here are very warm, hard-working, and kind. I am friends with Ayushmann Khurrana, Rajkumar Rao, Taapsee Pannu, Ananya Panday, and Akshay Kumar. All my co-stars, to be honest! When you spend so much time together, and you work so hard together, you do end up becoming friends.

NB: What, according to you, is the secret to a good friendship?

BP: The secret lies in being secure with yourself. That’s important for every relationship, be that a friendship or a romantic one. It is only when you are secure and comfortable with yourself can you steer away from jealousy, insecurities, or petty issues that might come in the way.

NB: What brings you true joy?

BP: That’s a tough one...sometimes, the easiest questions are the toughest to answer. Seeing my mother and sister happy and to be able to do things for them brings me genuine joy.

NB: What makes you angry?

BP: When someone is being disrespectful or lacks compassion.

NB: Are you an overthinker?

BP: Oh yes, absolutely! I’m always thinking; I don’t know how to shut my brain off. But I’ve been working on it and I try to be calmer.

NB: What do you think about before going to bed?

BP: Usually, about the next day and what all I have to do. I tend to focus on the future rather than dwell on the past.

NB: Tell us about your favourite travel destinations...

BP: I love travelling, and I decided to go on a long holiday. I recently visited five countries including Dubai, Spain, England, and The Netherlands... Spain is one of my favourite countries in the world, and whenever I’m in Europe, I make it a point to visit. I travelled with my best friends and my sister, and then my mother joined in as well. I feel privileged to be able to see the world in the company of my loved ones.