Pooja Hegde (born 13 October 1990) is an Indian model and actress who has worked across several regional film industries as well as in Hindi-language cinema. She first gained public attention through beauty pageants and modelling, and later moved into films where she has been cast largely in romantic and commercial roles.
Early career and modelling
Hegde’s early profile was built in the world of beauty contests and fashion. She was crowned second runner-up in the Miss Universe India 2010 competition, a result that helped launch her modelling career. In the years that followed she appeared in fashion shows, photo shoots and advertising campaigns while preparing for a transition to acting.
Film work and development
Pooja Hegde made her screen debut in the Tamil superhero film Mugamoodi (2012). She followed this with roles in Telugu cinema, appearing in titles such as Oka Laila Kosam and Mukunda (both 2014). Her entry into mainstream Hindi cinema came with director Ashutosh Gowariker’s historical drama Mohenjo Daro (2016), in which she co-starred with Hrithik Roshan.
Notable characteristics and public image
Hegde is often noted for her screen presence, dance ability and fashion sense. Critics and audiences have tended to cast her in leading-lady parts in commercial films, where glamour and song-and-dance sequences are prominent. Off screen, she has maintained a profile as a media-facing celebrity involved in endorsements and public appearances.
Selected filmography
- Mugamoodi (2012) — Tamil debut
- Oka Laila Kosam (2014) — Telugu
- Mukunda (2014) — Telugu
- Mohenjo Daro (2016) — Hindi
Throughout her career Hegde has moved between regional film industries and Bollywood, reflecting a broader pattern in Indian cinema where actors cross linguistic and market boundaries. She remains a visible figure in contemporary Indian popular culture, largely associated with mainstream entertainment and commercial film projects.