Love her, roll your eyes at her, or somewhere in between, Farhana Bodi is not a woman you can simply overlook. In the grand spectacle that is Dubai Bling, where wealth drips like honey and egos clash with the ferocity of a desert storm, Bodi is the one who stirs the pot with a precision of a Michelin-starred chef, and delivers perfectly plated drama with a side of couture.
There's the relentless self-promotion, the carefully curated image, and the air of someone who understands that reality TV is, above all, a game. But to dismiss her as just another social media influencer playing at luxury would be a mistake. Beneath the perfectly arched brows and designer ensembles is a woman who has built herself on sheer willpower, balancing single motherhood with a career that demands she stays perpetually relevant.
Edited excerpts:
1.As the only Indian on Dubai Bling, what challenges did you face in balancing your cultural heritage with your desire to fit into the glamorous Dubai scene?
Being the only Indian on Dubai Bling was a unique experience. I’ve always been proud of my heritage, and it’s something I carry with me wherever I go. However, stepping into a space dominated by such opulence and luxury meant finding a balance between embracing my culture and blending into the glamorous Dubai lifestyle. I never wanted to compromise my values or traditions, but I also wanted to show that an Indian woman can thrive and shine in such a cosmopolitan environment. The key was staying true to myself while appreciating and respecting the diverse culture around me.
2. Being a single mother and an entrepreneur can be demanding. How do you manage the balance between your professional endeavors and your personal life, especially as a role model to your child?
Balancing my life as a single mother and entrepreneur has been a journey of constant learning and prioritization. My son is my biggest motivation, and I always remind myself why I work so hard to provide him with the best opportunities and to be a role model he can look up to. There are days when it’s overwhelming, but I’ve learned to compartmentalize and delegate. When I’m working, I give it my all, but when I’m with my son, he has my undivided attention. Being present and intentional in both roles is how I manage to strike that balance.
3. Your style is one of the key elements that resonate with your audience. How would you define your personal style, and how has it evolved over the years?
My personal style is an extension of my personality - elegant, bold, and confident. I’ve always loved experimenting with fashion, blending traditional Indian elements with contemporary high fashion. Over the years, my style has evolved to reflect the phases of my life. As I’ve grown, my choices have become more refined, but I still enjoy taking risks. For me, fashion is about self-expression and empowerment—it’s a way to tell your story without saying a word.
4. Social media has the power to shape perceptions. How do you handle the pressure of maintaining an idealized version of your life while staying authentic to yourself?
Social media is both a blessing and a challenge. I love connecting with my audience and sharing my journey, but it’s important to remember that it’s just a highlight reel. Behind the glamour and the perfect pictures, I’m just a human being with struggles and imperfections. I try to stay authentic by sharing the highs and lows of my life, not everything needs to be polished. At the same time, I set boundaries to protect parts of my life that are deeply personal. Authenticity, for me, is about being real but also knowing what to keep private.
5. How do you use your platform to inspire and uplift others, particularly women and young entrepreneurs?
I’ve always believed in using my platform to empower others, especially women. Whether it’s sharing my journey as a single mother or talking about the challenges I’ve faced in my career, I want to show people that resilience and hard work can take you far. I love connecting with young entrepreneurs and reminding them that their dreams are valid. Success isn’t just about reaching the top—it’s about inspiring others to believe in themselves along the way.
6. What’s the most unexpected or surprising thing that being a social media influencer has taught you about people, culture, or the world?
One of the most surprising things I’ve learned is how universal human emotions are. Whether I’m connecting with someone from India, Dubai, or anywhere else in the world, people resonate with authenticity and vulnerability. Social media has also taught me that there’s so much beauty in diversity. Everyone has a story, and through this platform, I’ve had the privilege of hearing so many unique perspectives.
7. Being part of Dubai Bling, what has it taught you about the world of luxury and excess?
Dubai Bling offered a glimpse into a world that’s glamorous but also complex. It taught me that luxury isn’t just about material wealth, it’s about experiences, relationships, and sometimes, even the challenges that come with maintaining that lifestyle. While it’s easy to be dazzled by the opulence, I’ve also learned to stay grounded and focus on what truly matters to me: family, authenticity, and personal growth.
8. Is there a particular moment that made you question or challenge the concept of wealth and success?
There was a moment on the show when I realized that wealth doesn’t always equate to happiness. Seeing people chase material success sometimes made me reflect on what truly brings me joy. For me, it’s about meaningful relationships, being present for my son, and doing work that inspires others. Success is personal, and I’ve come to value the intangible things far more than the material.
9. The show showcases a glamorous lifestyle, but what’s one thing about your life off-camera that might surprise your followers?
Off-camera, my life is much simpler than people might think. I enjoy quiet moments at home, cooking for my son, or just spending time with my close circle of friends and family. I think people would be surprised to know how much I value those small, intimate moments—it’s what keeps me grounded.
10. What does 'success' look like to you personally? Is it different from what the world expects or perceives of you, especially with the fame from Dubai Bling?
For me, success is about inner peace and fulfillment. It’s about knowing that I’m doing my best as a mother, entrepreneur, and individual. While the world may see success as fame or wealth, for me, it’s about making a positive impact and being content with who I am.
11. With so much of your life shared publicly, how do you maintain your privacy and set boundaries?
Setting boundaries has been crucial. While I’m open about parts of my life, there are moments and relationships that I choose to keep private. It’s about knowing where to draw the line and understanding that not everything needs to be shared. Protecting my mental and emotional well-being comes first.
12. What is one lesson from your experiences as a single mother that has shaped you as a businesswoman?
As a single mother, I’ve learned the importance of resilience and adaptability—qualities that have been invaluable in my career. Being both a mom and a businesswoman means learning to navigate challenges with grace and determination. It’s taught me how to prioritize, stay focused, and never give up.
13. You mentioned that you're receiving offers from India for movies. Could you share what kind of roles or projects you are being approached for?
I’ve been approached for roles that celebrate strong, independent women, which resonates with me deeply. I’m also excited about the possibility of portraying characters that reflect the modern, globalized Indian woman. I’m looking forward to exploring opportunities that challenge me creatively.
14. What excites you most about working in Indian cinema, and how do you think it will differ from the entertainment industry in Dubai?
Indian cinema has such a rich legacy and global appeal, it’s an honor to be a part of it. What excites me most is the storytelling, the depth of characters, and the passion that goes into every project. While Dubai’s industry is growing and has its unique charm, Indian cinema offers a scale and emotional resonance that is unparalleled.