Why did Ishika Taneja leave acting in Bollywood?

 

Ishika Taneja, a former beauty queen and actress known for her role in the 2017 film "Indu Sarkar," has recently made headlines by announcing her departure from the entertainment industry to embrace a spiritual path. On January 29, 2025, she took a significant step in her spiritual journey by participating in a holy dip during the Maha Kumbh festival in Prayagraj, following her Guru Diksha ceremony in Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh. She received spiritual initiation from Shankaracharya Swami Sadanand Saraswati Ji Maharaj, an experience she described as one of the most defining moments of her life. citeturn0search0

Reflecting on her transition from the glamour of Bollywood to a life dedicated to spirituality, Ishika stated, "I am a proud Sanatani. I am connected with the spirit of service. There are divine powers in Maha Kumbh. The biggest achievement of my life is that I have received Guru Diksha from Shankaracharya ji. Having a Guru has given me direction in life." She emphasized that this shift is not a temporary phase but a permanent change, expressing that she feels she has finally "returned home" after years in films and music videos. citeturn0search2

Ishika also shared her views on the role of women in society, stating, "Women have not been made to dance wearing tiny clothes. They are made to serve Sanatan." She urged women to embrace their spiritual and cultural roots and actively promote Hindu traditions. Despite leaving her acting career, Ishika remains open to producing films that promote Sanatan Dharma and align with her spiritual values. citeturn0search0

Before her spiritual transformation, Ishika had an impressive career in the entertainment and beauty industries. In 2016, she was honored with the Rashtrapati Award by then-President Pranab Mukherjee as one of the 100 Women Achievers of India. She also holds a Guinness World Record for completing 60 airbrush makeups in 60 minutes on 60 models. Additionally, she has been actively involved in humanitarian efforts, supporting survivors of rape and acid attacks, orphans, and the elderly. citeturn0search0

Ishika Taneja's decision to leave the entertainment industry reflects a profound personal transformation and a commitment to a life centered on spirituality and the promotion of Sanatan Dharma.