Producer Vashu Bhagnani sold sarees on footpath before signing Govinda in a single morning, building Bollywood empire
From selling sarees on the streets at 13 to building a banner that has backed over 40 films, Vashu Bhagnani’s journey is as dramatic as the movies he produces. The founder of Pooja Entertainment, home to hits like Coolie No. 1, Hero No. 1 and Biwi No.1, has spent decades shaping commercial Bollywood, with his company producing more than 40 films over the years Speaking on the Zingabad podcast, Bhagnani opened up about his early struggles, business ventures, and the moment that changed his life. Bhagnani recalled his humble beginnings, saying, “I used to sell sarees on the footpath. At the age of 13, a boy who sold sarees on the road has reached here, so it is very good for himself. It will remain memorable for him and for his children.” At the time, his family lived in Kolkata, where opportunities felt limited. “In Calcutta, we were four brothers, and the scope there was a little limited, so we thought one brother should go to Delhi,” he said. That move proved to be a …