Ruby Bhatia, who earned Rs 1 lakh per show, says she makes Rs 1,000 a video now

Video jockey Ruby Bhatia addressed public speculation about her financial situation. In a recent interview, she explained her low fees for Instagram videos and her preference for a quieter, more manageable way of life amid rising expenses.

VJ Ruby Bhatia, who rose to fame in the 1990s, has responded to speculation about her financial situation after reports emerged that she charges only Rs 1,000 for Instagram videos. Once a prominent anchor commanding high fees at major events, Bhatia now prefers a quiet life and says her choice to keep fees low stems from escalating expenses and a personal philosophy prioritising accessibility over celebrity.

In an interview with Bollywood Thikana, Bhatia recalled her earlier earning power: “I used to charge about Rs 1 lakh per show in the 90s for anchoring events. For shoots, I charged per day depending on the project’s budget.”

Over the past 20 years, she stepped back from regular work, focusing on her family and a lifestyle away from the spotlight.

A post shared by Ruby Bhatia (@rubybhatia123)

The home renovation quickly became a significant financial undertaking. “I was spending nearly Rs 20,000 every day. Midway through, the COVID-19 pandemic hit and everything stopped. When the lockdown lifted, I realised nothing matched anymore and decided to redo everything. Again, the daily expenses started. Over time, I spent a lot of money.” These unexpected costs led her to reassess her approach to work.

Rather than return to the demanding schedules she once kept, Bhatia sought alternatives that would allow her to maintain her lifestyle and family responsibilities. “I had to take care of my kids, my home, and myself. One day, while sitting in my car, I was manifesting—wondering if I could find a job that could be done over the phone. I needed to earn because my savings had gone into the renovation.” Clarifying her financial standing, she said, “By God’s grace, I have everything. But the liquid money from my FDs was spent. To rebuild that, I needed to work.”