Pakhi Sharma, popularly known by her stage name Bobby Darling, is a trailblazing Indian actress whose story is one of resilience, transformation, and advocacy. Known for her memorable roles in Bollywood and television, Bobby Darling is also famous for her outspoken support of the LGBT community and for being a pioneering trans woman in Indian mainstream media. Her career, tumultuous personal life, reality show exploits, and recent public appearances together make Bobby Darling a compelling figure in contemporary Indian culture.
Early Life and Transformation
Bobby Darling was born as Pankaj Sharma in Delhi, India. Her journey of self-realisation began early in life, as she wrestled with identity struggles and family resistance. She came out as a trans woman in her youth, which strained relationships with her family, especially her father. After her mother passed away during her teenage years, Bobby’s tumultuous relationship with her father was spotlighted on reality TV, where a tearful reunion marked a rare moment of public acceptance for a transgender person in India.
- Bobby faced social and economic challenges, at one point working as a dancer in bars to support herself in Mumbai.
- Her passion for fashion led to a diploma and her eventual entry into the fashion industry, where she mingled with budding actors and producers.
- After two years of struggling to land film roles, Bobby picked her screen name spontaneously during an audition.
Rise in Bollywood and Television
Bobby Darling made her Bollywood debut with small but memorable roles in films like ‘Page 3’, ‘Chalte Chalte’, and ‘Kya Kool Hai Hum’. Known for her comic timing and bold personality, she became a visible face in both films and daily soaps, carving a niche in an industry known for typecasting.
Key Highlights:
- Appeared in hits like Taal, Style, Na Tum Jaano Na Hum, Maine Dil Tujhko Diya, Stumped, Valentine’s Day, Apna Sapna Money Money, and Tum.
- Also known for TV serials such as Jassi Jaissi Koi Nahin, Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi, Yeh Dil Chahe More, Kitni Mohabbat, and Sasural Simar Ka.
- Received international recognition with a Best Supporting Actor award at a foreign festival.
Bobby Darling’s openness about being transgender was revolutionary in Bollywood. Unlike other stars who kept their private life hidden, Bobby made her journey public, using her popularity to advocate for LGBT rights.
The Bigg Boss Chapter
The celebrity reality show Bigg Boss was another milestone for Bobby Darling. As a contestant in the inaugural season (2006), Bobby Darling became more than just an entertainment icon; she became a symbol of diversity and acceptance on national television.
- Bobby’s journey was marked by drama, including a mock marriage with fellow contestant Aryan Vaid, which drew both positive and negative attention.
- She was evicted in the first week through audience vote, but not before leaving a lasting impression with her candid personality and humour.
- Her openness about her life and relationships inside the Bigg Boss house was rare for Indian TV and brought visibility to the LGBT community at a critical cultural moment.
Bigg Boss Journey Table
Personal Life: Struggles and Advocacy
Bobby’s personal life has often intersected with her public persona. Her marriage to businessman Ramneek Sharma in 2016 was widely covered, but the relationship quickly turned tragic:
- She accused her husband of domestic violence, cheating, and cruelty, filing for divorce in 2017.
- Ramneek Sharma was later arrested and denied bail, with Bobby sharing details online, emphasising justice and her fight for survival.
Beyond personal drama, Bobby has remained a vocal supporter of LGBT rights. Her public statements, interviews, and appearances continue to spark conversations about gender identity and acceptance in Indian society.
Recent Challenges and Comeback
After years away from television and film, Bobby Darling’s recent public appearances have reignited interest and concern:
- In October 2025, Bobby was seen struggling to walk during public appearances, revealing she had health issues but assuring fans of her recovery.
- Viral videos prompted widespread support, with fans wishing her strength and a speedy recovery, and raising questions about support for retired celebrities.
- Bobby has made emotional appeals to Bollywood directors and producers for opportunities, highlighting her willingness and hope to return to acting after years of personal struggle.
These recent moments show Bobby’s enduring spirit, from being a forgotten talent to seeking fresh opportunities; her resilience remains at the centre of her narrative.
Impact and Legacy
Bobby Darling’s influence reaches far beyond entertainment. As one of the most visible transgender figures in Indian media, she brought attention to issues of identity, respect, and inclusion:
- Bobby’s advocacy inspired other artists and contributed to slow but steady changes in how Bollywood portrays LGBT characters.
- Her life is a testament to both the opportunities and the challenges faced by transgender people in India—a mix of acceptance, fame, hardship, and ongoing struggles.
- The public response to her recent health challenges underscores her lasting connection with fans and the need for industry-wide changes in supporting ageing and vulnerable artists.
Notable Filmography and TV Work
Public Perception and Media Coverage
Bobby’s life story, marked by high-profile interviews, film awards, controversies, and heartfelt social media updates, keeps her in public conversation. Industry observers note that Bobby’s journey from ostracisation to celebration offers lessons in empathy, acceptance, and perseverance.
