Poonam Pandey shared on Lock Upp that she often faces criticism from women for not conforming to the traditional ‘Bharatiya naari’ (Indian woman) stereotype, leading her to tears.
Poonam Pandey, known as a model, actor, and reality TV star, passed away from cervical cancer, as confirmed by her manager on Friday. While some on social media are asking for more information or a statement from her family, many are expressing surprise and sadness over Poonam Pandey’s unexpected death. In 2022, during her time as a contestant on the reality show Lock Upp hosted by Kangana Ranaut, Poonam had tearfully shared about feeling constantly judged.
ALSO READ : Poonam Pandey Succumbs to Cervical Cancer at 32; Manager Confirms Her Passing on Thursday Night
‘I have been totally blacklisted’
“I feel like I’ve been completely shut out,” she confided to fellow contestant Sara Khan, explaining that her past actions have made it hard for people to accept her. Poonam expressed, “I’ve faced a lot of judgment and criticism. It mostly comes from women because I don’t fit the traditional Indian woman stereotype. I’ve done things that go against Indian culture, so I’m treated like I don’t belong. People react negatively just at the mention of my name. It hurts because I’m not just someone’s wife or daughter-in-law; I’m someone’s daughter. Just because of a few things I’ve done, I feel like I’ve been completely rejected.”
Poonam Pandey, still in tears, expressed
I’ve always been criticized. Whether it was for getting hurt, going to the hospital, or not dressing ‘properly’.” The actor and model gained attention in 2011 when she pledged to strip if the Indian cricket team won the World Cup.
In 2021, Poonam’s former husband, Sam Bombay, was arrested for reportedly attacking her. According to news reports from ANI, the model and actor had to go to the hospital for treatment due to injuries to her head, face, and eyes.
“The Mumbai Police stated that Sam Bombay is facing charges under sections of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) because of the serious injuries suffered by the actress (Poonam Pandey),” ANI reported. Earlier, Sam had also been arrested for assaulting Poonam shortly after their wedding in 2020.
