Pooja Hegde, a name that resonates with elegance, talent, and grace in Indian cinema, has become one of the most sought-after actresses today. With her charming smile, exceptional acting skills, and strong work ethic, she has captured the hearts of millions. But who is Pooja Hegde beyond the glamorous lights of Bollywood and Tollywood? Let’s dive into her life story, where we explore her early beginnings, career milestones, personal life, and much more.
Early Life and Family Background
Pooja Hegde was born on October 13, 1990, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, to a Tulu-speaking family from Karnataka. Her parents, Manjunath Hegde and Latha Hegde, supported her dreams from an early age. Pooja also has an elder brother, Rishabh Hegde, who is an orthopedic surgeon. Growing up in a supportive environment, Pooja learned the importance of hard work, humility, and perseverance, which laid the foundation for her future career.
Education and Early Interests
Pooja completed her schooling in Mumbai and later graduated from M.M.K. College. As a student, she showed immense interest in cultural activities like dancing and singing. She also actively participated in inter-collegiate competitions, showcasing her multifaceted personality. Did you know that Pooja wanted to be a singer before she pursued acting? However, life had other plans for her, and soon modeling and acting became her primary focus.
Modeling Career and Breakthrough
Pooja Hegde’s entry into the world of glamor came through modeling. She participated in the prestigious Miss India competition in 2009, where she was crowned as the second runner-up. This success opened several doors for her in the entertainment industry. However, it wasn’t just her beauty that got noticed; her charisma and confidence were undeniable. Her journey from modeling to acting can be compared to a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly—delicate, yet powerful.
Entry into the Film Industry
Pooja made her acting debut in 2012 with the Tamil superhero film “Mugamoodi,” directed by Mysskin. Though the film didn’t do exceptionally well at the box office, Pooja’s performance was appreciated. This marked the beginning of her journey in the South Indian film industry.
Her Bollywood debut came in 2016 when she starred opposite Hrithik Roshan in the period drama “Mohenjo Daro.” While the movie faced mixed reviews, Pooja’s portrayal of Chaani earned her recognition in Bollywood.
Bollywood Success
After “Mohenjo Daro,” Pooja Hegde appeared in several high-profile Bollywood projects. Films like “Housefull 4” and “Cirkus” helped cement her position in Bollywood. Her on-screen presence, combined with her dancing skills, added to her popularity. She has been part of various big-budget films that showcase her versatility as an actress, from comedy to romance to drama.
Tollywood Stardom
While Bollywood recognized her talent, Tollywood (Telugu cinema) truly embraced Pooja Hegde. She became a sensation after working in blockbusters like “Duvvada Jagannadham” (DJ) with Allu Arjun and “Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo,” which solidified her stardom in Telugu cinema. Tollywood fans were captivated by her beauty and acting prowess, making her one of the highest-paid actresses in the industry.
Major Films and Awards
Throughout her career, Pooja has been part of numerous hit films. Some of her major projects include:
- Mohenjo Daro (2016) – Bollywood debut.
- Duvvada Jagannadham (2017) – Tollywood blockbuster.
- Aravinda Sametha Veera Raghava (2018) – Critically acclaimed Telugu film.
- Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2020) – One of her biggest hits in Tollywood.
- Radhe Shyam (2022) – A pan-India project with Prabhas.
Her acting skills have earned her several nominations and awards, including the Zee Cine Award for Best Actress and the SIIMA Award for Best Actress in Telugu cinema.
Personal Life and Relationships
Pooja Hegde is known to keep her personal life private. She has managed to stay away from major controversies and enjoys a clean reputation in the industry. Rumors of her relationships have circulated from time to time, but the actress prefers not to speak about her love life in public. Instead, she focuses on her work and family. She often shares glimpses of her life on social media, where she connects with her millions of fans.
Physical Appearance – Age, Height, Weight
One of the most talked-about aspects of Pooja Hegde is her stunning appearance. Born on October 13, 1990, she is currently 34 years old. Standing at 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm), Pooja has a statuesque figure that complements her presence in both Bollywood and Tollywood. She weighs approximately 53 kg (117 lbs), maintaining a fit and healthy lifestyle, often sharing her workout routines with fans.
Net Worth and Luxuries
Pooja Hegde’s hard work has paid off, not only in fame but also in fortune. As of 2024, her estimated net worth is around $7 million. She earns from her films, brand endorsements, and appearances. Pooja endorses several high-end brands, making her one of the most bankable celebrities in the Indian film industry. Apart from her earnings, Pooja enjoys a luxurious lifestyle, with a beautiful home in Mumbai and a love for expensive fashion and travel.
Future Projects and Ambitions
Looking ahead, Pooja Hegde has some exciting projects lined up in both Bollywood and Tollywood. She is working with top directors and actors, further establishing herself as a versatile actress. Her ambition is to take on challenging roles that showcase her acting depth and to continue growing as a performer. With her talent and determination, the sky’s the limit for Pooja Hegde!
Conclusion
From her humble beginnings to becoming one of the most celebrated actresses in India, Pooja Hegde’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Her dedication to her craft, coupled with her grace and beauty, has made her a beloved figure in both Bollywood and Tollywood. As she continues to shine in the entertainment world, we can only expect greater things from this rising star.
Also Read: Nara Rohit – Age, Height, Family, Relationship, Movies, Awards, Net Worth
FAQs
Q: What is Pooja Hegde’s age?
A: Pooja Hegde was born on October 13, 1990, making her 34 years old as of 2024.
Q: What is Pooja Hegde’s height?
A: She is 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm) tall.
Q: Which was Pooja Hegde’s debut film?
A: Her acting debut was in the Tamil superhero film “Mugamoodi” in 2012.
Q: What is Pooja Hegde’s net worth?
A: As of 2024, Pooja Hegde’s estimated net worth is around $7 million.
Q: Has Pooja Hegde won any awards?
A: Yes, she has won several awards, including the Zee Cine Award for Best Actress and the SIIMA Award for her work in Telugu cinema.