Pooja Dadwal, the actress who shared screen space with Salman Khan in the 1996 film 'Veergati', has experienced a dramatic shift in fortunes. While the film did not fare well at the box office, her performance garnered attention and seemed to promise a bright future in Bollywood.
Early Career and Transition to Television
Despite the initial buzz, Pooja did not receive steady offers from the Hindi film industry. She then turned to television, featuring in shows like 'Aashiqui' and 'Gharana'. Eventually, she got married and moved to Goa, stepping away from the limelight. Reports indicate that she helped her husband manage a casino during this period.
Health Crisis and Financial Hardship
In 2018, Pooja's life took a difficult turn when she was diagnosed with severe Tuberculosis. The illness severely impacted her health and led to financial strain. According to reports, her husband and in-laws withdrew support, forcing her to fend for herself in Mumbai.
Salman Khan's Support
After being discharged from the hospital, Pooja publicly thanked Salman Khan for his assistance. She revealed, "I can't describe how I am feeling. When I was hospitalised on March 2, I thought I was going to die there bedridden in a corner of that depressing ward. My family and friends had abandoned me. I gave up all hope after the doctors told me that my lungs were severely affected."
She added, "Yes, one of the side-effects of tuberculosis is social rejection but I am really thankful to Salman Khan who lent me the support. From clothes to soaps, diapers, food, medicines, his foundation took care of everything. If I survived the ordeal, it is only because of him."
Current Life: Tiffin Service in a Chawl
As per a recent update shared by social media user Nalini Unagar, known as Naliniskitchen, Pooja now runs a small tiffin service and lives in a chawl in Mumbai. Unagar posted, "She tried to come back through Punjabi films, but the film failed. Today, Pooja runs a small tiffin service and lives a very simple life in a chawl. Life is just so unpredictable."
Netizens React
The post sparked reactions from netizens who expressed sadness over her situation. Many commented on the unpredictability of life. One user said, "Success isn't permanent and struggles can come to anyone, huge respect for how she stayed strong through it all."
Pooja's journey from Bollywood to a modest tiffin service serves as a poignant reminder of the fragile nature of fame and fortune.
