'Won't return to poverty even if I have to change 10 husbands, I hate it': Rakhi Sawant

Actor and reality television personality Rakhi Sawant has offered a candid glimpse into her lavish lifestyle, revealing the hefty price she spends on her appearance and explaining why financial success remains one of her biggest priorities.

Speaking on entrepreneur Queenie Singh's podcast, Sawant discussed everything from her beauty regimen and luxury spending habits to her views on money, poverty and personal struggles. Known for her outspoken personality, the entertainer said financial security has become central to her life after years of hardship and family health crises. 

Rs 12 lakh for 'Russian hair'

During the conversation, Singh asked Sawant how much wealth she would ideally like to accumulate. The former Bigg Boss contestant replied that she wanted to earn so much money that she could "sleep on a bed of it".

When questioned about where her earnings go, Sawant pointed to her appearance and designer styling.

"Ye sab kaha se ata hai (Where does it all come from)?" she asked while gesturing towards her accessories and overall look.

Referring to her hair extensions, she said: "This is my Russian hair. Ek time ke Rs 12 lakh lagte hain. Ye Dubai, London, Canada, aur America se (karwaya hai). Ye India me nahin hota hai (One session costs Rs 12 lakh. You can only get it in Dubai, London, Canada and America. It does not happen in India)."

Sawant went on to say that many of her beauty treatments are sourced internationally. According to her, she gets her nails done outside India and has even travelled to Africa for specialised eyelash treatments.

Pointing to various facial enhancements, she remarked, "See my jawline, cheeks, lips, and nose. This is all money."

'I hate poverty'

The reality star also spoke bluntly about her determination never to return to the financial struggles she experienced earlier in life.

"Main gareebi mein firse nahin aungi, chaahe mujhe 10 husbands change karne pade (I won't return to poverty even if I have to change 10 husbands)," Sawant said.

She followed the statement by adding, "I hate gareebi (I hate poverty)."

The comments reflected what she described as a lifelong drive to remain financially independent and secure, regardless of public criticism.

'Money is my medicine'

The discussion also turned to mental health when Singh asked whether Sawant experiences depression.

Responding in her trademark humorous style, Sawant said: "Mere depression ki dawa hai money-ton, money singh, and money-cetamol. Agar mere paas ye teeno dawaiyaan hain toh mera depression gayab ho jata hai (The medicines that help me deal with depression are money-ton, money singh, and money-cetamol. If I have these three medicines, depression goes away)."

She added, "What is life without money?" before explaining that much of her career has been driven by the need to earn and support herself.

According to Sawant, she transformed from a shy and innocent child into a bold on-screen personality because she needed to make a living. She said she continues to work extensively through brand endorsements, club appearances and other projects to ensure a steady flow of income.

Personal struggles shaped her outlook

While some may view her remarks about depression as controversial, Sawant's comments come against the backdrop of significant personal and financial challenges.

Over the years, she has spoken openly about the financial burden of caring for her late mother, who battled cancer and a brain tumour. During Bigg Boss 14, Sawant chose to accept the show's Rs 14 lakh cash offer and leave the competition, saying the money would help fund her mother's treatment.

In 2021, she publicly thanked Salman Khan and Sohail Khan for supporting her family during the medical crisis and helping arrange treatment from leading doctors.

Her mother died in 2023 after a prolonged illness.

Sawant later revealed that she was facing her own health battle after being diagnosed with a tumour in her uterus. In 2024, she said Salman Khan once again stepped in to help by covering her medical expenses.

Those experiences, she suggested, reinforced her belief that financial stability can make a crucial difference during life's most difficult moments.