Bigg Boss 17's Soniya Bansal quits acting: ‘What use is money if you're not at peace?'
Bigg Boss 17 contestant and actor Soniya Bansal has announced her decision to step away from the entertainment industry, citing a lack of inner peace despite external success. In an interview with ETimes, Soniya reflected on her journey in showbiz and why she feels it's time to move on.
Known for her appearances in Naughty Gang, Dubki, Game 100 Crore Ka, and Shoorveer, Soniya said she felt increasingly disconnected from herself. 'In this race to be perfect, to stay relevant, and to earn more, I lost myself,' she said. 'Money, fame, popularity, I had it all. But what I didn't have was peace. And what use is money if you're not at peace? You may have everything externally, but if you're empty inside, it's a very dark place to be.''
Soniya's experience in Bigg Boss 17, where she was the first to be evicted, brought her considerable public attention, but the pressure of maintaining a public persona took a toll. She admitted the industry gave her visibility but left her feeling emotionally drained. 'This industry gave me recognition, but not stillness. It didn't allow me to breathe.'
Now, Soniya plans to pursue a new path as a life coach and spiritual healer. She said the shift comes from a desire to live truthfully and help others find clarity in their lives. 'I don't want to pretend anymore. I want to live authentically, for myself.'
Apart from films, she gained popularity through several music videos, including Khudgarze, Farak, and Zindagi Do Roz Ki. Despite her upcoming role in the Telugu film Yes Boss, she appears firm in her decision to transition away from acting.
With 6.5 million followers on Instagram, Soniya says she hopes to use her platform in more meaningful ways going forward.
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