‘GOT MY DEBUT FILM OFFER ON MY B’DAY’

Birthdays have always been special for Bhumi Pednekar (left), but the most memorable one was in 2014. That year, on July 18, she got the call for her maiden Bollywood film, Dum Laga Ke Haisha (2015). And guess what? The actor had taken leave on that day and was sleeping when her phone rang. “I didn’t know how to react. I remember going back to sleep again. I think, I was in a state of shock. My mum and sister came from the other room excitedly to tell me that I bagged the role. They hugged me and got emotional,” recalls Bhumi. The film put the spotlight on Bhumi and since then there has been no looking back for her. This year, Bhumi is looking forward to the release of two films, one with Akshay Kumar and the other with Ayushmann Khurrana. Currently she’s promoting the film with Akshay, Toilet: Ek Prem Katha, and says that this year, it will be a working birthday. However, she expects a surprise party from her friends. She says, “I feel like princess on my birthdays — thanks to my family and friends. They always make it memorable. Also, I visit a temple to offer prayers and also celebrate the occasion with Rashid kaka [her close family friend] and his family.” Remembering her most favourite birthday gift till date, the actor, who turns 28 today says, “A few years ago, my parents gifted me a special heirloom piece of jewellery that belonged to my naani. That will remain my favourite gift for long.”

PHOTO: RAHUL JHANGIANI