RASHAMI DESAI ON WINNING HEARTS, FUTURE PLANS AND DRIVING PASSIONS
by ASJAD NAZIR
LAST month, Bigg Boss 13 pulled in record-breaking ratings and one of the biggest winners was much-loved contestant Rashami Desai.
The actress won admirers globally for the way she handled herself in a particularly volatile edition of India’s answer to Celebrity Big Brother, gaining praise for her determination and dignity. She is now looking forward to reconnecting with her first love of acting and has a rapidly growing fan base supporting her every move.
With interesting projects on the way, Rashami was in good spirits when Eastern Eye caught up with her to discuss Bigg Boss 13, her future plans, growing fan base and unique ambition.
Were you hesitant about participating on Bigg Boss 13?
The thoughts that literally entered my mind when I was entering the house were, ‘I don’t know how I will be, will I be able to survive, will this journey be a good one and will it contribute anything to my life?’ I knew this show was different to others I had done, so I had a lot of mixed feelings when I said yes and entered the house.
How do you look back on the whole experience?
It was interesting, but also not easy to stay in the house for so long. Every day offered up new surprises and every Weekend Ka Vaar (weekly segment) showed us a different point of view and a whole different side to what was going on. I had to understand it was a different world in there, which was difficult and interesting at the same time.
How did you manage to cope with such a demanding show and stay mentally strong?
At one point of time, I did give up and said I want to quit, but Salman (Khan) sir helped me a lot. There was a time when I was mentally broken up, but I realised that this is me, and I need to take care of myself. I had to understand the whole situation and myself. I was taking care of others and doing things for them, even when they didn’t think about me. It made me realise that life is difficult, but also very beautiful and it is about how you look at it. So yes, the game like life teaches you a lot and you have to learn. I used to meditate also a little bit and that helped me.
Did you learn anything new about yourself while participating in Bigg Boss 13?
I knew that I would be able to handle all kinds of situations inside the house and realised early on it was not just a game. I was a contestant who had a journey inside the house, personally and creatively, but I also got physically hurt and mentally tortured. So I found extra inner strength. (Laughs) I also learned that inside the house some contestants will make sure you get into trouble and leave.
You were my favourite Bigg Boss 13 contestant because you remained good while all those inside the house were constantly fighting. How did you manage to retain that goodness in such difficult circumstances?
Thank you for the compliment, Asjad. (Laughs) Initially, I also used to fight a little, just to pass the time, but day-by-day it became heavy and self-realisation was always there. The creative team made sure that you have something happening every week. I used to talk to other contestants and those visiting the house, like family and friends. I could understand it is not just about having expectations of others, and it’s also about you and yourself. That helped me a lot. It is about understanding yourself as an individual.
What is your master plan?
I was thinking I will go on vacation the moment I am out (of Bigg Boss 13). I had several plans, but soon realised I had so much work to finish. There are so many people who wanted to know about the journey, including my family, so I have been spending time with them. Soon, you will be seeing me with a new project, which I’m excited about, but I can’t talk about it right now.”
You are an actress first and foremost. What would be your dream role?
There are so many and that is the beauty of acting. I really want to explore a lot. There isn’t just one character I would love to play. I want to do everything.
Out of the work you have done, which is closest to your heart?
My first show Pari Hoon Main. That is something very close to my heart because it showed you the story of two people – a rock star and a normal next-door girl, who doesn’t even have money to eat food properly. As an actress, it was difficult to portray such contrasting characters. It was quite a wonderful challenge.
Today, what inspires you?
I want to carry on doing good work. I have done a lot of work in television and want to work in films now. I have started working towards that.
How much does the immense fan support mean to you?
Honestly speaking, people did love my work before, but many didn’t know who Rashami Desai was, but now they know and love me so much. I didn’t know the difference between being a fan of a character I have played and me, but now they love me and who I am. This is what I have earned, and I think it is bigger than the trophy I would say.
We found out a lot about you in the house, tell us something people don’t know?
I think you guys know everything about me. (Laughs) The only thing you don’t know is that I am a chirpy and fun loving girl! Inside, it was stressful, so I was crying most of the time, thinking about what has happened and the surprises coming up. (Laughs) Now, I don’t want any surprises. The moment I came out, you must have seen me all happy with my friends. I was scared of losing my friends inside the house, but they loved me. I realised if friends can’t accept me the way I am then they aren’t my real friends. That gave me a push and strength.
What advice would you give to those going into Bigg Boss 14?
Just be yourself and raise your voice if you feel that it is not right and be very clear with your thoughts because you should be clear to your own self. And there are times when people will pick up one word and start fighting with you, but you should know what is right. Stick to that and always keep yourself first. Respect yourself and others will automatically follow.
What advice would you give young girls?
To all the young girls I would say, don’t be too emotional and don’t give up. There was a time when I used to think I am lonely and a lot of times had no idea I am very strong mentally. I used to doubt myself. I’m sure other girls feel the same. So, believe in yourself. I want to say girls have the power to change the world and they should know this. They should take it positively and create more beautiful things around them.
What are your passions away from work?
I love dancing and driving. There is one tour – I have forgotten the name – where you do a trip from Delhi to London by road. I really want to do that.
What is it that you love about being an actor?
That I can live everyone’s life and that it is limitless.
Finally, would you give a message to your fans?
It is because of their love and support and belief that I could survive in the show and I am whatever I am today. Thank you so much for loving me, and I am so very grateful.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.