‘Wish things were more on the basis of merit in Bollywood’

The outsiders versus insiders debate in Bollywood does not seem to be dying down soon. Actor Soundarya Sharma says that without a guardian in the industry, she faces trouble even landing auditions.

“You don’t get auditions easily. And, of course, there are platforms given to star kids. I have nothing against them, but they are born in families and enjoy the privilege. I just hope things were on the basis of merit. Then again, it isn’t a perfect world. When you know you can do better than someone else and have the calibre, you feel helpless,” shares Soundarya, who made her Bollywood debut with the 2017 film, Ranchi Diaries.

However, she says she does not let herself get bogged down by it. “When I feel low, I look up to people who have made it on their own. I try and be optimistic. Your survival instinct has to be really strong and powerful. Then only you can be here,” says the actor.

So, what kind of films does she want to do? “I want to do a superhero film,” she replies, adding, “I don’t believe in male- and female-centric films. The times are changing, the audience is changing and that is the biggest advantage for actors like us. The audience wants to give us a chance,” Soundarya says.

When you know you can do better than someone else and that you have the calibre, you feel helpless... Your survival instinct has to be really strong. Then only you can be here.

ACTOR