Pooja Hegde Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Movies & Achievements
Introduction
Pooja Hegde is a popular Indian actress and model who works in Telugu, Hindi, and Tamil films. Known for her beauty, elegance, and versatile performances, she rose to fame with films like Mohenjo Daro, DJ: Duvvada Jagannadham, Aravinda Sametha Veera Raghava, Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo, and Housefull 4. A former beauty pageant contestant, Pooja has established herself as one of the leading actresses in Indian cinema, admired for her charm, acting talent, and dancing skills.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Pooja Hegde
- Date of Birth: 13 October 1990
- Birthplace: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Libra
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 9 inches (175 cm)
- Weight: Approx. 55 kg
- Hair Color: Black
- Eye Color: Brown
- Build: Slim & Graceful
- Figure/Measurements: 34-25-34
Early Life & Family Background
Pooja was born into a Konkani-speaking family from Udupi, Karnataka.
- Father: Manjunath Hegde
- Mother: Latha Hegde
- Brother: Rishabh Hegde (Doctor)
Despite being academically inclined, Pooja pursued modeling and acting, balancing studies and career ambitions.
Education Journey
She studied at M.M.K. College, Mumbai, where she pursued a degree in commerce and also took part in intercollegiate fashion shows and dance competitions.
Modeling & Pageant Career
Before films, Pooja participated in beauty pageants:
- Miss India 2009: Contestant (crowned as Miss India Talented).
- Miss Universe India 2010: 2nd Runner-up.
Her modeling career brought her into the spotlight and opened the doors to acting.
Film Debut
- Tamil Debut: Mugamoodi (2012) – Played the female lead.
- Telugu Debut: Oka Laila Kosam (2014) opposite Naga Chaitanya.
- Bollywood Debut: Mohenjo Daro (2016) opposite Hrithik Roshan, directed by Ashutosh Gowariker.
Rise in South Indian Cinema
Pooja became one of the leading heroines in Telugu cinema with:
- DJ: Duvvada Jagannadham (2017) with Allu Arjun.
- Aravinda Sametha Veera Raghava (2018) with Jr. NTR.
- Maharshi (2019) with Mahesh Babu.
- Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo (2020) – One of the biggest hits in Telugu cinema, opposite Allu Arjun.
Bollywood Career
Pooja balanced her South Indian success with Bollywood films:
- Housefull 4 (2019) – Comedy blockbuster.
- Radhe Shyam (2022) opposite Prabhas (Pan-India release).
- Cirkus (2022) with Ranveer Singh.
- Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan (2023) opposite Salman Khan.
Recent Work & Upcoming Projects
Pooja continues to sign films across languages and is working on high-profile projects in Telugu and Hindi cinema, making her a true pan-India actress.
Personal Life
Pooja is known for keeping her personal life private. She is admired for her professionalism, humility, and close bond with her family.
Awards & Achievements
- SIIMA Awards: Nominated for Best Actress (Telugu).
- Zee Cine Awards Telugu: Won recognition for Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo.
- Featured in Forbes India’s list of top actresses.
Records & Milestones
- Among the most successful heroines in Telugu cinema.
- Starred in one of the highest-grossing Telugu films, Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo.
- Known for being a multi-lingual actress (works in Hindi, Telugu, Tamil).
Beyond Films
- Dancer: Trained in Bharatanatyam and Western dance.
- Brand Endorsements: Face of brands like Citra, Hero Maestro, and Vijay Sales.
- Philanthropy: Actively supports social causes and charity initiatives.
Legacy & Influence
Pooja Hegde has emerged as one of the most sought-after actresses in Indian cinema. With her beauty, versatility, and ability to shine in multiple film industries, she represents the pan-India star phenomenon.
FAQs
Q1. When was Pooja Hegde born?
A: 13 October 1990, in Mumbai, India.
Q2. What was Pooja Hegde’s Bollywood debut film?
A: Mohenjo Daro (2016) opposite Hrithik Roshan.
Q3. What are Pooja Hegde’s most famous Telugu films?
A: DJ: Duvvada Jagannadham, Aravinda Sametha Veera Raghava, Maharshi, Ala Vaikunthapurramuloo.
Q4. Has Pooja Hegde acted in Tamil cinema?
A: Yes, she made her debut with Mugamoodi (2012).
Q5. What are her recent Bollywood films?
A: Cirkus (2022) and Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan (2023).
Q6. Is Pooja Hegde also a model?
A: Yes, she was Miss Universe India 2010 runner-up before becoming an actress.
