Veteran Actress Anita Kanwal Opens Up on Harsh Reality of Showbiz: From 13 Shows Simultaneously to Constant Audition Rejections
Approach Bollywood Newswire | Mumbai | May 24, 2026
In an emotional and candid interview, veteran television actress Anita Kanwal has shed light on the painful side of the entertainment industry, where fame can be fleeting and age often becomes a barrier despite decades of dedicated work.
Known for her memorable roles in popular shows like Banegi Apni Baat, Sonpari, Sea Hawks, Sasural Genda Phool, and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai, Anita Kanwal, who has been a part of the industry for over 40 years, says she is now struggling to even land small roles.
Speaking to Siddharth Kannan, the senior actress revealed the emotional toll of going from being one of television’s most in-demand character actors to feeling invisible.
Peak Career to Painful Present
At the height of her career, Anita Kanwal was reportedly juggling 13 shows simultaneously — a testament to her popularity and work ethic in the 90s and early 2000s. Today, the scenario is starkly different.
“I have been giving auditions, keeping my ego aside,” she shared. In one recent audition, when asked to introduce herself, she reportedly said, “I am Anita Kanwal and I have been acting since most of you weren’t even born.” The room fell silent, and she didn’t get the part.
She added, “It hurts a lot when people stop remembering you. Just three days ago, I told my daughter, ‘Why am I even living? What am I contributing to society or to my craft anymore?’”
Self-Doubt and Industry Realities
Kanwal openly admitted to battling self-doubt and moments of deep despair. “I feel like self-destruction… I won’t say suicidal, but sometimes I pray to God and say, ‘If there’s nothing meaningful left for me in this world, then take me away.’ I don’t want to just exist without purpose,” she said.
The actress questioned the industry’s double standards, pointing out that while she was once told her face was “overexposed,” the same actors continue to dominate OTT platforms today. “I have aged. But I’m not asking to be cast as a 12-year-old — cast me as a 70-year-old. There are people my age getting plenty of work, so why not me?” she asked.
Years of Sacrifice
Kanwal also recounted the immense personal sacrifices she made for her craft. She recalled shooting even when her mother was on her deathbed. “I got a call from the hospital but the production asked me to finish the scene first. I did the scene and then left. I don’t deserve the situation I am in today,” she said with visible pain.
She had once witnessed the industry’s harsh nature as a younger actress when a senior actor was sidelined in her presence. That day, she realized her time would come too.
A Call for Reflection
Anita Kanwal has also appeared in films like Geetanjali and Mujhse Dosti Karoge!. Her journey highlights the challenges faced by many veteran artists in an industry that often celebrates youth and novelty over experience and talent.
As the conversation around mental health and ageism in Bollywood and television gains momentum, stories like Anita Kanwal’s serve as a sobering reminder of the human cost behind the glitz and glamour.
Approach Bollywood Newswire wishes Anita Kanwal strength and hopes the industry finds meaningful roles for its experienced talents.
