Yamini Malhotra Shares the Challenges of Finding a Home in Mumbai Amid Discrimination
Yamini Malhotra, a popular television actress best known for her roles in shows like Ghum Hai Kisikey Pyaar Meiin and Bigg Boss 18, has recently opened up about the difficulties she faces when searching for a home in Mumbai. The actress shared a candid and disheartening experience on her Instagram stories, shedding light on the prejudices and discrimination she encountered while looking for a place to live in the city.
Known for her bold personality, charm, and wit, Yamini has garnered a significant fan following, especially after her appearance on Bigg Boss 18. However, her latest post on social media highlights an unpleasant side of her journey—finding a home in Mumbai has proven to be a challenge due to discriminatory practices that still persist in the city’s housing market.
Discrimination in the Mumbai Housing Market
Mumbai, often dubbed as the ‘city of dreams’, is known for being a melting pot of people from various backgrounds, professions, and religions. However, Yamini Malhotra’s recent experience suggests that even in a progressive and cosmopolitan city like Mumbai, discrimination continues to rear its ugly head, particularly when it comes to renting homes.
In her heartfelt post, Yamini described how she was asked invasive and discriminatory questions during her search for a rental property. She was questioned about her religion, with some asking, “Are you Hindu or Muslim?” or “Gujarati or Marwadi?” such inquiries are not only inappropriate but also showcase the ongoing biases that some landlords and agents harbor.
Yamini’s frustration was further compounded when many property owners outright rejected her application simply because she is an actor. She shared her shock and disappointment over being judged based on her profession, highlighting the biases that exist even in the entertainment industry.
“Does being an actor make me less deserving of a home? It’s shocking how these questions still exist in 2025. Can we really call this the city of dreams if dreams come with condition?” she wrote on Instagram.
Her post resonated with many fans and followers, sparking a broader conversation about the challenges that actors and people from different walks of life face when it comes to housing. Yamini’s story is not an isolated one; many have faced similar discrimination, whether it’s based on religion, profession, or background.
The Irony of Mumbai’s ‘City of Dreams’
Mumbai has long been seen as a haven for people aspiring to achieve success, particularly in the entertainment industry. The city draws thousands of hopefuls each year, with dreams of making it big in film, television, and fashion. Yet, Yamini’s experience highlights the dark side of Mumbai’s charm—the reality that people are often judged based on superficial factors like their religion or career.
For someone like Yamini, who has worked hard to build her career, the idea that her profession could be a stumbling block in securing basic needs like housing is disheartening. The actress called out the irony of the situation, asking how one can truly consider Mumbai a “city of dreams” when its residents are faced with such prejudices in their daily lives.
The Broader Issue of Housing Discrimination in India
Yamini Malhotra’s experience with housing discrimination is part of a broader, deeply rooted issue in India. Across the country, many individuals face discrimination based on religion, caste, and profession when seeking rental accommodation. Property owners often impose conditions that go beyond the practicalities of renting, subjecting tenants to questions that violate their privacy and human dignity.
Despite efforts to address these issues, housing discrimination continues to be a significant problem in urban areas, with cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru witnessing a sharp rise in cases. In many instances, landlords and real estate agents have been found to reject applicants simply because of their profession (such as actors or artists), or because of perceived differences in their cultural or religious background.
The consequences of such practices are far-reaching. Not only does it undermine the principles of equality and fairness, but it also discourages people from pursuing careers in certain fields, fearing they will be judged or excluded.
Yamini Malhotra’s Call for Change
In her post, Yamini took a stand, urging society to evolve beyond these outdated prejudices. Her heartfelt plea resonated with many, as she asked for a world where opportunities, respect, and acceptance are not limited by one’s background or profession.
She emphasized the need for change, both in the housing market and in society at large. “Can we really call this the city of dreams if dreams come with conditions?” she questioned, highlighting the contradiction that persists in a city that prides itself on being inclusive and diverse.
Yamini’s revelation is a timely reminder that discrimination still exists in many forms, even in spaces that are supposed to represent progress. Her courage in sharing this experience has sparked an important dialogue on the need to address such biases and create a more inclusive environment for everyone, regardless of their profession, religion, or background.