The dazzling world of Bollywood attracts everyone. Glamour, fame, and the love of fans transform every aspect of life. In this glamorous world, there are many artists who, even amidst this glittering world, seek inner light. Today, we will tell you the story of one such actress, who not only voluntarily bid farewell to the glamorous life but also left the film industry altogether, choosing the path of religion and spiritual practice. This actress, who once walked the red carpet, now lives a life filled with restraint, silence, and inner peace. She chose a path that is easy to see, but not everyone can live. The actress we are talking about is none other than Barkha Madan.
A journey that began with glamour
A girl who once strode the ramp and competed on stages like Miss India alongside beauties like Sushmita Sen and Aishwarya Rai, is now living a meditative life in the mountains. This is the story of Barkha Madan, a woman who left the world of glamour behind and chose the path of inner peace. Barkha Madan’s life was extraordinary from the very beginning. In 1994, she participated in the Miss India contest, where she was crowned “Miss Tourism India,” and then placed third in an international beauty pageant held in Malaysia. She was an aspiring model and brimming with confidence.
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Worked in these films and shows
After this, she turned to Bollywood. In the 1996 superhit film “Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi,” she shared the screen with Akshay Kumar, Rekha, and Raveena Tandon. Then, in 2003, her character “Manjeet” in Ram Gopal Varma’s “Bhoot” sent shivers down the spine of audiences. She also appeared in the world of television, making a strong presence felt in popular shows like “Nyay,” “1857 Kranti” (where she played Rani Lakshmibai), and “Saat Phere.” While her career graph was improving, her mind was burdened.
Inner silence changed her path
The more success she experienced outside, the more unspoken restlessness she felt within. Barkha was repeatedly confronted with one question: “Is this all there is to life?” Despite living among the stars, she felt alone. She was trying to fill a void that neither fame nor money could fill. It was from here that she began to listen to her inner voice. Barkha was already influenced by the teachings of the Dalai Lama. Gradually, the words from the books began to sink into her. She wasn’t just reading; she was transforming from within.
When an actress became a Buddhist monk
In 2012, Barkha Madan made a decision that few people can make. She said goodbye to the world of dreams and chose to become a Buddhist monk. Leaving behind her old life and identity, she adopted the new name Gyalten Samten. This wasn’t just a name change; it was a life-changing step. Now, she lives in the tranquil valleys of the Himalayas, where there are no scripts, no dialogue, no cameras—only a path of meditation, service, and self-discovery.
A New Definition of Beauty
The woman who once lit up the ramp and could intimidate on the silver screen has now embraced Buddhist traditions. Gyalten Samten now lives a simple life, unattached to looks or social trappings. She has completely distanced herself from makeup, colorful clothes, and all kinds of luxury. She is often seen wearing Buddhist monk-like attire. She is very active on social media, where she shares life updates and educates people about Buddhism. She has even met the Dalai Lama several times.
