From Sharing the Miss India Stage with Aishwarya Rai to Becoming a Monk: Barkha Madan’s Journey from Bollywood to Buddhism
From Sharing the Miss India Stage with Aishwarya Rai to Becoming a Monk: Barkha Madan’s Journey from Bollywood to Buddhism
Barkha Madan, the actress who once dazzled audiences in Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi with Akshay Kumar, has taken a life-changing turn. The former model and actress has now embraced Buddhism and lives as a Buddhist monk under the name Gyalten Samten. Far away from the flashing lights and film sets, Barkha now lives in the calm mountains, dedicating her life to meditation, mindfulness, and service.
Her transformation surprised many fans who remembered her from movies and TV shows. Barkha’s journey shows how even someone from the glamorous world of Bollywood can choose peace and simplicity over fame and luxury.
The Actress Who Chose Peace Over Stardom From Red Carpets to Robes
Barkha Madan’s story began in the world of beauty and glamour. In 1994, she took part in the Miss India pageant alongside Sushmita Sen and Aishwarya Rai, two names that went on to define Indian beauty worldwide. Barkha didn’t win the crown but made her mark by earning the title of Miss Tourism India. She later represented India at an international pageant in Malaysia, where she finished third.
Her charm and confidence soon opened doors to modelling and films. In 1996, Barkha made her Bollywood debut in the blockbuster Khiladiyon Ka Khiladi, sharing screen space with Akshay Kumar, Rekha, and Raveena Tandon. She later appeared in the horror thriller Bhoot (2003) with Ajay Devgn and Urmila Matondkar, where her role as Manjeet earned her attention. On television, she became a familiar face in shows like Nyay, 1857 Kranti, and Saat Phere.
Even at the height of her acting career, Barkha felt something was missing. She had achieved fame and success, but her heart longed for peace and purpose. Her connection with spirituality began early in life, back in 6th grade, when she visited a monastery in Sikkim. That childhood visit planted a seed of curiosity and calm within her.
Years later, when she met His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Barkha found the guidance she was seeking. His teachings on compassion and inner peace inspired her to explore Buddhism more deeply. Over time, the glamour of show business began to fade in her eyes as the pull toward a spiritual life grew stronger.
Choosing the Path of Peace
In 2012, Barkha made a bold and life-changing decision. She left behind her film career, her fame, and even her name to begin a new life as Gyalten Samten. She moved to the quiet mountains, where she now spends her days meditating, studying Buddhist teachings, and helping others find peace.
For Barkha, this change wasn’t just about religion, it was about transformation. She once said that her decision was not to escape life but to understand it better. Gone are the makeup kits, movie scripts, and designer outfits. Now, she wears the simple maroon robes of a Buddhist nun and finds beauty in silence and simplicity.
She often shares her thoughts and photos on social media, showing glimpses of her monastic life and encouraging people to follow mindfulness. Barkha has even met the Dalai Lama several times, expressing gratitude for his teachings that changed her life.
