In recent times, many Bollywood many celebrities have spoken about nepotism prevailing in Bollywood. Many actors/actresses have spoken about how nepotism fails so many talented actors and actresses while giving endless opportunities to mediocre star kids, and nepotism is one of the reasons why Bollywood suffers from mediocrity. Nepotism is leading to many talented and deserving actors being sidelined. Here are some such talented actresses, who have been sidelined:
1 Yami Gautam
The top on the list is Yami Gautam. Be it Vicky Donor, Uri-the Surgical Strike, Chor Nikal Ke Bhaga, or OMG 2, she has proved to many that she is a powerful house of talent. With more than decade decade-long career, she is still not offered the meaty roles that she deserves. Talented actresses like her should be counted among A-listers but sadly, Bollywood refuses to value her talent.
2 Radhika Apte
No one can doubt her talent. Even though she has showcased her talent through powerful performances, still Bollywood has not done justice to her. While she has been part of some terrific web series- Made in Heaven 2, Sacred Games, and movies like Andhadhun or Parched, we still feel that Bollywood should recognize her exceptional talent and cast her in impactful and meatier lead roles. Given her talent, she definitely deserves it.
3 Sanya Malhotra
She started her career in 2016 with Dangal, where she delivered a captivating performance. Since then, she has consistently exceeded expectations with roles in Ludo, Badhai Ho, Photograph, and more recently Pagglait. She truly deserves better opportunities, and hope Bollywood will not let her exceptional talent go to waste.
4 Mrunal Thakur
With impactful performances in movies like Sita Ramam, Love Sonia, Made in Heaven 2, and Lust Stories 2, she has undoubtedly earned more substantial roles. Hope that Bollywood recognizes her talent and provides her with the opportunities she rightfully deserves.
5 Shobhita Dhulipala
Following her successful stint in the Made in Heaven series and her notable role in The Night Manager, she unquestionably deserves greater opportunities in Bollywood. People anticipate her taking on more significant roles that truly highlight her remarkable talent and potential.
6 Rasika Duggal
Rasika, known for her role in the Mirzapur series has been a present for a while, though she admits to often being approached for supporting roles. Those who have witnessed her on-screen understand she is a remarkable actress who deserves more. Her work in shows like A Suitable Boy, Out of Love, and Delhi Crime has left audiences impressed. It is high time Bollywood offers her roles she is worthy of.
7 Shivani Raghuvanshi
She is an actor worth rooting for, and gained recognition with her role of Jaspreet Kaur in the Made in Heaven series. Her debut as lead actor in Titli earned her both industry and critical acclaim. She has also been featured in OTT projects like Devi, and Raat Akeli Hai.
8 Nushrrat Bharuccha
With movies like Chhalang, Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety, and Chhori, she has successfully showcased her versatility to the audience. Despite her undeniable talent, it is disheartening that she was not recast in the Dream Girl sequel, especially her involvement in the successful original. She recently spoke about being replaced by Ananya Panday ( a nepotism kid) in the sequel, expressing her feelings and understanding of the situation.
9 Tilotama Shome
She has won hearts and awards for her talent but in Hindi cinemas, she is not seen as often. She won the Best Actress Award for her film Raahgir at the South Asian Film Festival. She made special appearances in Monsoon Wedding, Hindi Medium, and English Medium. Her recent OTT releases are Lust Stories 2, The Night Manager, and Is Love Enough? Sir, are definitely a great reminder of her acting prowess. But still, why does not Bollywood cast in the lead or meaty roles?
Above are few actresses whose careers are being affected by the fact they are not product of nepotism. With the emergence of OTT platforms it is very heartening that these actresses are getting opportunities to show their talent, otherwise the main line Bollywood filmmakers only cast the actresses known to them through nepotism in lead and meaty roles.
Waiting for your views on this blog.
Anil Malik
Mumbai, India
6th January 2024
WISHING ALL MY READERS A VERY HAPPY AND PROSPEROUS 2024.