Priya Malik discusses poetry journey, Bigg Boss fame and personal life reflections

Poetry that comes from honesty is not just heard, it is felt. Known to audiences after Bigg Boss 9, but truly defined by her poetry, Priya Malik is today one of the strongest voices in spoken word poetry. Her poems about mother, home, love, tea, and memories touch hearts across generations. In this conversation, Priya spoke openly about poetry, popularity, motherhood, spirituality, Bigg Boss, love, and the ups and downs of her life.

How does your poetry create such a deep connection with people that it bridges generations?

I believe I write what I genuinely feel. I look for that connection within myself and within others that is common to all of us. For example, no matter where you go in the world, home-cooked dal and rice remain the most comforting. That feeling isn’t just mine—it belongs to everyone. My poem written in 1999 came from that emotion, and it’s surprising that even kids who weren’t born then connect with it today.

People consider your language, voice, and style as your USP. What would you say?

My USP is exactly what you said—honesty. I write only what I truly believe in. If you write just to go viral, the audience catches it immediately. Faith and truth are the biggest rewards in poetry.

Your poetry has a retro and traditional feel. Does today’s youth connect with it?

People think today’s youth only want modern things, but that’s not true. Even 18–25-year-olds want to connect with retro and old-school elements. Food, fashion—everything is returning to basics. If I change the nature of my writing, my audience may stop relating to me.

Did you ever imagine poetry could become your profession?

Never. In a middle-class Indian family, poetry is not considered a career. I always wrote and recited, but never thought it could earn me a living. When my poems reached people through YouTube and work started coming in, I realized you can live through your art—and that’s the biggest success.

Is it fair to say social media changed your life?

My entire success came through YouTube. I didn’t create my own channel; I performed on other platforms and connected with audiences there. Social media gave poetry a stage and a voice for the new generation.

How did motherhood change you and your creativity?

After becoming a mother, everything changes—your body, mind, and perspective. But it’s the most beautiful experience. I feel a missing circle in my life was completed. Interestingly, my best career years came after motherhood—international tours and global shows. My son brought good fortune into my life.

What would you like to say about the Diwali accident?

It was a 10-second incident that made me realize how fragile life is. I personally felt how helpless one can become in such moments. But I focus on the fact that God saved me. Gratitude is very important.

What does spirituality mean to you?

I believe the universe gives us only what we are ready to handle. My success, motherhood, and even hardships came at the right time. I trust this process.

How important was Bigg Boss 9 in your career?

Bigg Boss played a very important role in my life. Honestly, Indian audiences recognized me only after the show. I came straight from Australia to India and was taken directly from the airport to the Lonavala set—no preparation time at all. Still, it turned out to be a major turning point.

Was it difficult to be accepted as a poet after Bigg Boss?

Yes, very difficult. People saw me only as a reality show contestant. They couldn’t believe I wrote poetry. Many asked how someone who was seen fighting on TV could write poems. But over time, I showed them that poetry was always my identity.

Which Bigg Boss 9 contestants are you still in touch with?

I share a very close bond with Kishwer Merchant and Suyyash Rai—we’re all mothers now, which creates a special connection. I’m also in touch with Prince Narula, Yuvika Chaudhary, Vikas Bhalla, Keith Sequeira, and Rochelle Rao.

What do you think about “fixed winner” allegations around Bigg Boss 19 winner Gaurav Khanna?

This happens every season. Even during our season, similar things were said about Prince Narula’s win. You can’t ignore popularity and fan base. Television is a very strong medium in India, so there’s nothing wrong if a TV face wins. He wasn’t my favorite contestant, but I’m happy for his win. Bigg Boss 19 was an interesting season with diverse personalities—that’s the true beauty of the show.

Your thoughts on one-sided love?

One-sided love is never complete. It has been romanticized, but over time it can become toxic. Love is complete only when it’s mutual.

What is your definition of love?

Love means care—whether the other person is okay, whether they’ve eaten. We learn this from our parents.

Would you like to act in a script written by you?

Yes, absolutely. If I get the opportunity, I would love to. But even if it doesn’t happen, I have no regrets. What matters most to me is that the story and emotions reach the audience honestly.

Who in the industry has appreciated your work in a special way?

I’ve received a lot of love from the industry. Ayushmann Khurrana has appreciated my poetry. I wrote for Sushmita Sen’s show and received great praise. Working on Sheer Khurma with Shabana Azmi and receiving her appreciation was special. Hearing Javed Akhtar at Jashn-e-Rekhta was like a dream. Gulzar and Amrita Pritam’s writing has always inspired me—acceptance from such legends is a huge validation.

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Any fan moment close to your heart?

There are many emotional fan moments. People cry at my shows, hug me, and tell me how my poems helped them through tough phases. Some bring gifts, some say they named their daughters “Priya” because of my poetry. Being known today for my poems instead of my Bigg Boss fights gives me immense peace.

Who inspired you in writing and poetry?

Gulzar is my biggest inspiration—his writing and expression deeply influence me. Javed Akhtar’s thinking and fearlessness inspire me greatly. I’ve read and listened to Amrita Pritam for years; her sensitivity and depth taught me a lot.

How do you see yourself in the future—writer or actress?

Writing is my first love. If I ever get to act in something I’ve written, I will. But writing will always come first.

Your favorite poem?

My favorite poem is Ishq. It’s very close to my heart and also the name of my show. It talks about trust, patience, and surrender—believing that what’s meant for you will reach you. That, for me, is the true meaning of love.

What’s in your pipeline?

My focus is entirely on writing right now. I’m working on a film script, which excites me a lot. I also have poetry shows and international tours lined up—my biggest show is on February 27 in London, followed by a reading on February 28 and a performance in Dublin on March 1.

What message would you like to give young writers and creators?

My biggest advice is to connect with yourself first. If you aren’t connected to yourself, you won’t connect with your audience. Don’t chase trends or try to be someone else—write what you truly feel. Honesty is your biggest strength. Audiences are very smart; they instantly know whether you’re being real. Write from the heart, be patient, and stay true to your path—that’s what will take you forward.

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