In a candid interview with Nayandeep Rakshit, veteran actor Neena Gupta opened up about the ongoing challenges she faces in the film industry despite a successful career resurgence. Known for her fearless honesty, Neena recalled how, even after actively announcing her availability for work, she continues to face professional setbacks — including being replaced in films without notice.

Neena highlighted the persistent age-based disparity in Bollywood, noting how male actors her age or older continue to be cast in leading roles, while women are often restricted to playing grandmothers or sidelined altogether. She revealed that many of her contemporaries, despite their talent, struggle to find meaningful work.

Determined not to give up, Neena said she still actively reaches out for roles — messaging directors, tracking film announcements on social media, and requesting opportunities. She recounted an incident where she was unofficially dropped from a film after initial discussions, only to learn of her replacement through an Instagram post. Confronting the producer, she received an apology and was later cast in another project with him.

Neena also shared an earlier experience of being replaced by fellow actor Tanuja in a film starring Amitabh Bachchan, despite having her costumes ready, underscoring the unpredictable nature of the industry. However, she emphasised the importance of resilience and letting go of bitterness.

Currently, Neena is gearing up for the fourth season of the popular web series Panchayat, and will also be seen in Anurag Basu’s Metro… In Dino, opposite Anupam Kher. (With inputs from Agencies)