Bengaluru-based actress Nithya Shri, known for her debut in a Mani Ratnam film and her ongoing project with director Bijoy Nambiar, recently visited the Bangalore Times office to share insights about her journey in the film industry.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by actors, Shri emphasized the importance of resilience in the face of rejection. “One of my biggest learnings as an actor is that you have to be ready to accept rejection. There are so many reasons why people don’t select you for a particular role. You cannot blame them or yourself. There could be several reasons why you aren’t picked for a role: your looks may not fit the part, you may be too young or old for the part. It happens. You just have to believe in yourself. There’s no other choice,” she said.
Shri also stressed the significance of continuous learning in an actor’s career. “Every project teaches you something, so I’m making sure to learn as much as I can with each project I do. It’s all about gaining skills. An actor is not a star just because of their brand value. Yes, that matters, but what’s more important is their dedication and of course, the way they treat others,” she added.
Addressing the prevalent issue of nepotism in the film industry, Shri expressed her concerns about the lack of opportunities for talented individuals who are overshadowed by star kids. “In the film industry, we keep saying there’s a lack of representation. But all we do is cast the next star kid in a stellar role! If someone with the right talent auditions, they should get the part, not be pushed aside for a more famous name. This way you can showcase the talent that’s available while also letting people know that talent matters most,” she remarked.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by outsiders in the industry, Shri spoke about the emotional toll it can take on individuals without influential connections. “It’s tough being an actor, and more so, if you don’t have a godfather in the industry. There have been a lot of moments where I’ve felt like breaking down and giving up. It’s not easy; but I have come to believe that it is all part of the process. When I’m feeling low, I paint, dance, crib and clean. I clean a lot — the days when I’m close to having a breakdown, my house is spotless,” she shared.
In conclusion, Nithya Shri advocated for a fairer casting process in the film industry, urging filmmakers to prioritize talent over nepotism and celebrity status.