Pooja Hegde, who has been a part of successful movies in Telugu and Tamil cinema, started 2025 with Deva. Talking about making a breakthrough in Bollywood, the actress, who made her Hindi film debut with the Hrithik Roshan-starrer Mohenjo Daro in 2016, says, “Who doesn’t want to make it big in Bollywood? Which actor has ever said ‘no’ to this? One definitely wants to succeed, and you never know when a film will come along and change things for you.”
‘I don’t have someone producing films for me’
Pooja, who is originally from Mumbai, appreciates how welcoming South filmmakers have been towards her. She says, “When you’re not from the industry, it’s not just about whether the audience gives you a chance, but whether the industry does. Every film becomes crucial because I don’t have someone producing films for me or reassuring me that even if one doesn’t work out, they’ll make the next one for me. You get fewer opportunities. I’ve built my career by constantly hustling. It’s been an upward journey, and every film has been vital for me. Every film can make or break you, and you need to push through if it doesn’t work out to secure your next project. So, I never take my work for granted.”‘I want to do more Hindi films and strike a balance’
Pooja, who was featured in Housefull 4, hopes for more opportunities in Bollywood. She reflects, “I grew up watching Bollywood films, so the decisions I make regarding Hindi movies are very emotional for me. I’m thrilled that some of my South films have crossed boundaries and reached the Hindi audience. Now, I want to do more Hindi films and strike a balance.”
The actress, who will next be seen in the Tamil film Retro with Suriya, believes that it is important for actors to be open to the projects that come their way, irrespective of the language. “You never know who’s watching you and sees something unique in you,” she says, adding, “My goal is to leave behind a legacy of work that is good, no matter the language. While growing up, many films inspired me, and I, too, want to be a part of movies that make a lasting impact.”