In the crowded space of romantic comedies, The Taming of the Shrewd (Polish: Poskromienie złośnicy, 2022) stands out as a refreshingly fun, quirky, and entertaining gem from Poland. Directed by Anna Wieczur-Bluszcz and streaming on Netflix, this modern take on Shakespeare’s classic play delivers big laughs, charming romance, and feel-good vibes wrapped in the beautiful backdrop of Polish countryside life.

The plot is clever and engaging: Kaśka (Magdalena Lamparska), a brilliant but heartbroken scientist from Chicago, returns to her family home in rural Poland after discovering her boyfriend’s betrayal. Determined to start over and protect her family’s land, she clashes with her scheming brother, who desperately wants to sell the property. To manipulate her into agreeing, he hires a handsome and charming stranger, Patryk (Mikołaj Roznerski), to win her over. What begins as a calculated con quickly turns complicated as genuine feelings develop, leading to hilarious misunderstandings, family drama, and unexpected romance.

The screenplay is sharp, playful, and well-paced. It successfully updates the spirit of The Taming of the Shrew into a contemporary setting without losing the fun battle-of-the-sexes energy. The dialogues are witty, natural, and filled with cultural flavour — mixing clever one-liners with warm, emotional exchanges that make the characters feel real and relatable.

The performances are a major highlight. Magdalena Lamparska shines as Kaśka — bringing fiery intelligence, vulnerability, and charm to the strong-willed “shrew.” She makes the character both formidable and deeply lovable. Mikołaj Roznerski is perfectly cast as Patryk, delivering charisma, humour, and sincerity that make you root for him despite his initial motives. The supporting cast, including Piotr Cyrwus as the scheming brother and others, adds wonderful colour and authenticity to the family dynamics.

The comedy is light-hearted, quirky, and genuinely funny — ranging from physical gags and awkward situations to clever verbal sparring. The film maintains a breezy tone while touching on themes of heartbreak, family loyalty, trust, and personal healing. The emotional engagement stays strong throughout, balancing laughs with heartfelt moments that explore what it truly means to rebuild after disappointment.

The locations are breathtaking. Shot in the picturesque rural landscapes of Poland, the film is filled with lush green fields, charming villages, traditional homes, and serene countryside views that make you want to pack your bags and visit. The cinematography beautifully captures the warmth and simplicity of small-town life, turning the setting into a character of its own.

The Taming of the Shrewd is a perfect example of wholesome entertainment that combines romance, comedy, and family drama into one enjoyable package. It reminds us that love often arrives in the most unexpected ways and that sometimes the best way to heal is through community, laughter, and opening your heart.

If you’re in the mood for a fun, uplifting, and charming romantic comedy with a strong cultural flavour, The Taming of the Shrewd is highly recommended. Stream it on Netflix for a delightful escape filled with smiles, warmth, and feel-good moments.

A perfect weekend watch that proves good stories, strong performances, and beautiful locations can create pure cinematic joy!

Approach Bollywood highly recommends this Polish gem.

The post The Taming of the Shrewd: A Delightful Polish Rom-Com That Blends Wit, Heart & Rural Charm first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

According to reports, Nihalani was unwell for some time and had been admitted to hospitals in Mumbai, including Nanavati Hospital, where he received treatment in recent weeks. He passed away in the morning, with some sources mentioning around 9:30 AM. His last rites are scheduled to take place at 3 PM today at the Santacruz Crematorium in Mumbai.

A Storied Career in Bollywood

Pahlaj Nihalani enjoyed a career spanning over four decades in the Hindi film industry. He produced several notable films, including the blockbuster Aankhen (1993) starring Govinda, Shola Aur Shabnam, Ilzaam, Andaz, Talaash, Rangeela Raja, and Julie 2. Known for his commercial sensibility, he was particularly active during challenging times in the industry, such as the period following the 1993 Mumbai blasts.

In January 2015, he was appointed as the Chairperson of the CBFC, a position he held until 2017. His tenure was marked by significant discussions around film censorship, creative freedom, and certification guidelines. Nihalani often defended his decisions by emphasizing the protection of Indian cultural values, which frequently placed him at the center of debates within the film fraternity.

Tributes Pour In

News of his passing has led to an outpouring of condolences from the Bollywood community. Colleagues and actors who worked with him have remembered him as a passionate filmmaker and a warm individual with a sharp eye for talent.

He is survived by his wife, Nita Nihalani, and their three sons — Vishal, Deepesh, and Chirag.

Approach Bollywood extends its deepest condolences to the Nihalani family and the entire film industry on this irreparable loss. Pahlaj Nihalani’s contributions to Hindi cinema, both as a producer and as a regulator, will be remembered for years to come.

The post Veteran Filmmaker and Former CBFC Chairperson Pahlaj Nihalani Passes Away at 76 first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

There are films, and then there is Anand (1971) — a timeless masterpiece that stands as one of the most admired, loved, and emotionally profound classics in the history of Hindi cinema. Directed by the legendary Hrishikesh Mukherjee, this gem remains unmatched in its ability to blend laughter, tears, philosophy, and spirituality into one unforgettable experience.

At its heart, Anand is a beautiful, life-affirming story of a man named Anand (Rajesh Khanna), who is terminally ill yet radiates boundless joy, optimism, and love for life. Despite knowing his time is limited, he refuses to live in sorrow or self-pity. Instead, he touches every life he encounters with his infectious enthusiasm, witty humour, and deep compassion. The film unfolds through the eyes of Dr. Bhaskar Banerjee (Amitabh Bachchan), a serious, somewhat cynical young doctor, whose rigid outlook on life is completely transformed by Anand’s extraordinary spirit.

Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s direction is sheer poetry. With his signature simplicity and sensitivity, he creates magic without any unnecessary drama or melodrama. The screenplay by Hrishikesh Mukherjee and Gulzar is flawless — tight, emotionally rich, and deeply humanistic. Every scene serves a purpose, every character feels real.

The dialogues of Anand are legendary and have become part of Indian cultural consciousness. Written by Gulzar, they are profound yet simple, philosophical yet deeply moving. Lines like “Zindagi badi honi chahiye, lambi nahi” (Life should be big, not long) and “Babumoshai, zindagi bhar yahi sochoge ki main mar gaya ya main jee gaya?” continue to inspire generations with their spiritual wisdom on the impermanence of life and the importance of living fully in the present moment.

Rajesh Khanna delivers the performance of a lifetime as Anand. Charismatic, mischievous, emotional, and deeply spiritual — his portrayal is so powerful that it feels less like acting and more like a soul expressing the joy of existence. This role immortalised him as the ultimate romantic and philosophical hero of Hindi cinema. Amitabh Bachchan, in one of his earliest major roles, brings quiet intensity, sensitivity, and depth as Dr. Bhaskar. The chemistry between Khanna and Bachchan is pure magic — their friendship remains one of the most beautiful male bonds ever shown on Indian screen.

The supporting cast including Sumita Sanyal, Ramesh Deo, Seema, Atam Prakash, and others add wonderful warmth and realism to the film.

What makes Anand truly special is its deep spiritual message. The film teaches us the most important lesson of life — to celebrate every moment, to spread love and laughter even in the face of death, and to accept the inevitable with grace and dignity. It beautifully explores themes of friendship, love, relationships, hope, and the true meaning of a meaningful life. It reminds us that it is not the length of life but the depth of living that truly matters.

The emotional scenes are handled with such tenderness and restraint that they pierce straight through the heart. You laugh with Anand, you cry with him, and in the end, you walk away feeling spiritually uplifted and grateful for your own life.

Even after more than five decades, Anand continues to touch millions of hearts across generations. It is not just a film — it is a spiritual and emotional experience that leaves an indelible mark on your soul.

Hrishikesh Mukherjee gave Indian cinema one of its greatest treasures with Anand. For anyone who wants to understand the real essence of life, love, friendship, and positivity, this film is essential viewing.

If you haven’t watched Anand recently, go back to it. And if you haven’t seen it yet, consider yourself lucky — you’re about to experience pure cinematic and spiritual bliss.

Anand is not just a classic. It is a celebration of life itself.

Jai Ho to the eternal spirit of Anand… and to the legendary Hrishikesh Mukherjee.

Zindagi badi honi chahiye…

Sonu Tyagi: Sonu Tyagi is an award-winning writer, director, and producer with a distinguished background in journalism and advertising. As the visionary founder of Approach Entertainment—a leading celebrity management, films production, advertising & corporate films productions, films marketing, events & entertainment marketing firm—along with Approach Communications (India’s premier PR, Digital and integrated communications agency), Approach Bollywood (a dedicated entertainment news wire), and Go Spiritual (a spiritual organization promoting spirituality, mental wellness, and social impact), he has redefined the landscape of Indian media and entertainment.

Discover more at www.approachentertainment.com and www.sonutyagi.com

The post Anand: The Eternal Classic That Celebrates Life Like No Other first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

महान उर्दू लेखक सआदत हसन मंटो की कहानियों से प्रेरित ‘बॉम्बे स्टोरी’ मुंबई की जिंदगी, इंसानी भावनाओं और समाज की सच्चाइयों को बेहद संवेदनशील तरीके से दिखाती है। फिल्म की स्क्रीनिंग के दौरान थिएटर खचाखच भरा रहा और अंतरराष्ट्रीय दर्शकों व फिल्म समीक्षकों ने फिल्म की जमकर तारीफ की।

फिल्म में मौनी रॉय के साथ अनुप्रिया गोयनका, राहत शाह, कस्मी, शोएब निकाश शाह और कई अन्य कलाकार अहम भूमिकाओं में नजर आए हैं। सभी कलाकारों के अभिनय को काफी सराहा गया।

फिल्म के प्रीमियर के बाद तारिक खान ने कहा, “मंटो की कहानियां हमेशा जीवित रहेंगी क्योंकि वे इंसानी जिंदगी की सच्चाई को बिना किसी दिखावे के सामने लाती हैं। ‘बॉम्बे स्टोरी’ के जरिए हमने उनकी विरासत को सिनेमा के माध्यम से दुनिया तक पहुंचाने की कोशिश की है।”

तारिक खान अपनी अलग तरह की फिल्मों और गंभीर विषयों पर आधारित कहानियों के लिए जाने जाते हैं। उनकी फिल्में समाज, संस्कृति, पहचान और इंसानी संघर्ष जैसे विषयों को दर्शाती हैं।

इससे पहले उनकी फिल्में ‘आइडेंटिटी कार्ड’, ‘लिहाफ – द क्विल्ट’ और ‘साइड ए साइड बी’ कई अंतरराष्ट्रीय फिल्म समारोहों में सम्मान और सराहना हासिल कर चुकी हैं। उनका प्रोडक्शन हाउस ‘तारिक खान प्रोडक्शंस’ ऐसी फिल्मों का निर्माण करता है जो कला, संस्कृति और मजबूत कहानियों को महत्व देती हैं।

जम्मू-कश्मीर से संबंध रखने वाले तारिक खान भारतीय संस्कृति और क्षेत्रीय कहानियों को दुनिया के बड़े मंचों तक पहुंचाने पर गर्व महसूस करते हैं। कान्स में ‘बॉम्बे स्टोरी’ की सफलता ने एक बार फिर उन्हें अंतरराष्ट्रीय सिनेमा में मजबूत पहचान दिलाई है।

फिल्म के कान्स प्रीमियर के बाद अब इसके बड़े स्तर पर रिलीज और अंतरराष्ट्रीय वितरण की संभावनाएं बढ़ गई हैं। ‘तारिक खान प्रोडक्शंस’ मुंबई स्थित एक प्रोडक्शन हाउस है, जो सार्थक और भावनात्मक फिल्मों के निर्माण के लिए जाना जाता है।

अधिक जानकारी के लिए:
Approach Entertainment / Approach Communications
9820965004 / 9716962242
info@approachentertainment.com

Visit:
www.approachentertainment.com & www.approachcommunications.in

The post तारिक खान की मौनी रॉय स्टारर फिल्म ‘बॉम्बे स्टोरी’ का कान्स फिल्म फेस्टिवल में भव्य प्रीमियर first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

Over the last few days, the veteran artiste had been listening to her own songs, as shared by Mangala Khadilkar, author of the acclaimed Marathi biography Suman Sugandh.

A Voice That Enchanted Generations

Born Suman Hemmady on January 28, 1937, in Dhaka (then undivided India), Suman Kalyanpur began her journey in playback singing in the 1950s. Her career took off with films like Shukrachi Chandni and Mangu (1954). She quickly established herself as one of the most versatile and soulful voices in Hindi and Marathi cinema, often noted for her vocal resemblance to Lata Mangeshkar, yet carving a distinct identity of her own.

Some of her most memorable songs that continue to resonate with audiences include:

• Aaj Kal Tere Mere Pyar Ke Charche
• Na Na Karte Pyar Tumhin Se
• Tumne Pukara Aur Hum Chale Aaye
• Sharaabi Sharaabi Yeh Saawan Ka Mausam
• Na Tum Hamein Jaano
• Parbaton Ke Pedon Par
• Nimbonichya Zhaada Maage

Her popular duets with Mohammed Rafi remain fan favourites even today. Beyond Hindi films, Suman Kalyanpur lent her voice to numerous songs in Marathi, Bengali, Odia, Assamese, Kannada, and other regional languages. She was equally admired for her bhajans, ghazals, thumris, Marathi abhangs, and bhavgeets.

Tributes Pour In

The news of her passing has deeply saddened the music fraternity and fans across the country. Several prominent personalities expressed their condolences:

Sharad Pawar, senior NCP leader, said: “The news of the passing of Suman Kalyanpur is extremely heartbreaking. With her sweet, melodious, and soul-stirring voice, she enriched the world of Indian music… I offer my heartfelt tribute to her.”

Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra, posted on X (formerly Twitter), describing her voice as one that “ruled the hearts of music lovers for more than six decades.” He highlighted her Padma Bhushan honour and the invaluable treasure her songs represent.

A Remarkable Life in Music

Suman Kalyanpur trained under renowned gurus including Pt. Keshavrao Bhole, Ustad Khan Abdul Rehman Khan, and Master Navrang. Initially inclined towards painting (she studied at Sir J.J. School of Art), music became her true calling after completing schooling at St. Columba’s in Mumbai. She married businessman Ramanand Kalyanpur in 1958 and is survived by her daughter, Charu Agny.

With her demise, Indian music has lost yet another stalwart from the golden era, coming shortly after the passing of Asha Bhosle. Suman Kalyanpur’s legacy of sweetness, emotional depth, and versatility will continue to live on through her immortal melodies.

Approach Bollywood offers its deepest condolences to her family and countless admirers. Om Shanti.

The post Veteran Playback Singer Suman Kalyanpur Passes Away at 89 first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

In a streaming world overflowing with big-budget spectacles, It Takes a Village (2026) arrives as a refreshing, feel-good Polish gem that reminds us of the simple joys of community, family, and second chances. This delightful romantic comedy, directed by Łukasz Kośmicki and serving as a heartwarming sequel to the popular No Pressure, is pure comfort cinema — charming, funny, and emotionally uplifting.

The plot is wonderfully engaging and full of warmth: On the day of her long-awaited wedding to Jan, the spirited matriarch Halina (Anna Seniuk) faces a sudden financial crisis that threatens to cancel the entire celebration. Instead of giving up, Halina’s close-knit family, friends, and the entire village of Bodzki come together in a wild, creative, and often chaotic plan to save the wedding by turning their small rural community into a tourist attraction. What follows is a hilarious and touching journey filled with clever schemes, unexpected romance, village mischief, and beautiful moments of solidarity.

The screenplay is smart, light-hearted, and emotionally grounded. It beautifully captures the spirit of rural Poland while delivering laugh-out-loud situations and tender family moments. The dialogues are witty, natural, and culturally rich — blending gentle humour with heartfelt conversations that celebrate relationships, forgiveness, and the power of togetherness.

The performances are outstanding across the board. Veteran actress Anna Seniuk shines as Halina — bringing feisty energy, emotional depth, and incredible charm to the role of a strong-willed woman who refuses to let circumstances defeat her. Artur Barciś is wonderfully warm and endearing as Jan, while Anna Szymanczyk returns as Oliwia, adding sweetness and continuity from the previous film. Filip Gurłacz and the rest of the ensemble deliver delightful supporting turns that make the village feel alive and authentic.

The comedy is quirky, goofy, and genuinely funny — never over-the-top, but rooted in character and small-town dynamics. From tourist-trap antics to romantic misunderstandings and village-wide coordination, the film keeps you smiling and invested throughout. The emotional engagement is equally strong, with touching scenes that highlight the importance of family bonds, community support, and finding love at any age.

The locations are a visual delight. Shot in the picturesque Podlasie region of Poland, the film showcases lush green landscapes, charming wooden houses, peaceful countryside, and the authentic beauty of rural Polish life. The cinematography makes the village itself feel like a living, breathing character — warm, welcoming, and full of soul.

At its core, It Takes a Village is a celebration of the beautiful truth that “it really does take a village” — to heal, to love, to overcome challenges, and to create joy. The film carries a gentle spiritual undertone about community, gratitude, resilience, and the idea that we are stronger together.

If you’re looking for a light, uplifting, and thoroughly entertaining escape filled with laughter, romance, and heart, It Takes a Village on Netflix is the perfect choice. It’s the kind of film that leaves you feeling good about life, love, and human connection.

Highly recommended — a charming, wholesome treat for the whole family!

Stream it now and let this Polish village warm your heart.

The post It Takes a Village: A Heartwarming Polish Rom-Com That Proves Love, Community & Laughter Can Solve Anything first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

The emotional journey culminated in a housefull premiere at the iconic Palais venue during the Marché du Film. The screening was met with enthusiastic applause from an international audience, appreciating the film’s deep emotional storytelling, powerful performances, and poignant exploration of silence, longing, and human emotions inspired by the spirit of Saadat Hasan Manto.

Following the screening, the cast and crew, including stars Mouni Roy, Anupriya Goenka, Rahat Kazmi, and others, walked the glamorous red carpet, showcasing the vibrancy and depth of Indian independent cinema. Mujeeb Ul Hassan, who has now represented Indian films at Cannes multiple times, shared his heartfelt reflections:

“Walking the Cannes red carpet is always exciting — surrounded by lights, cameras, emotions, and the pure magic of cinema. A beautiful evening filled with unforgettable memories that will stay forever close to my heart.”

A Milestone for UFI Productions

This appearance marks another proud chapter for UFI Productions, the Delhi-Mumbai based production house led by Mujeeb Ul Hassan. Known for impactful films like Mantostaan, Side A Side B, Rabbi, and the upcoming satirical comedy Camp Decent, UFI continues its tradition of taking meaningful Indian stories to international platforms. Hassan has previously received standing ovations at Cannes for his earlier works.

Bombay Stories is produced in association with several partners including UFI Productions and features a strong ensemble cast. The first look of the film was unveiled at Cannes, creating excitement among global cinema enthusiasts.

With over two decades of experience in films, television, music, and corporate content, Mujeeb Ul Hassan has built a reputation for thought-provoking storytelling. His films have been recognized at various international festivals, and he continues to bridge Indian narratives with worldwide audiences. This year’s Cannes visit highlights his unwavering commitment to quality cinema that transcends borders.

The successful outing at Cannes 2026 is expected to boost Bombay Stories’ visibility as it prepares for wider release. Industry insiders view this as yet another step in strengthening India’s presence on the global film circuit.

Congratulations to Mujeeb Ul Hassan and the entire team of Bombay Stories on this remarkable achievement! Indian cinema shines brighter on the world stage.

The post Mujeeb Ul Hassan Represents Indian Cinema at Cannes Film Festival 2026 with ‘Bombay Stories’ first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

Inspired by the powerful and unflinching literary works of legendary Urdu writer Saadat Hasan Manto, Bombay Story brings to life raw human emotions, societal complexities, and the vibrant yet gritty spirit of Mumbai. The film was screened to a packed theatre and received an overwhelmingly positive response from the international audience and critics alike.

The ensemble cast of Bombay Story features a stellar lineup including Mouni Roy, Anupria Goenka, Rahat Shah, Kasmi, Shoaib Nikash Shah, and several other talented actors who deliver compelling performances that capture the depth and nuance of Manto’s narratives.

Speaking on the premiere, Tariq Khan expressed his gratitude for the warm reception: “Manto’s stories are timeless because they speak the truth of human existence without filters. Bombay Story is our humble attempt to carry forward that legacy and present it to the world through the language of cinema.”

Known for his distinctive directorial voice and commitment to meaningful storytelling, Tariq Khan has carved a niche in world cinema by bringing authentic regional Indian stories to international audiences. His films often explore themes of identity, culture, social realities, and human resilience.

Prior acclaimed works by Tariq Khan include Identity Card, Lihaaf – The Quilt, and Side A Side B, all of which have garnered multiple international awards and widespread critical appreciation at prestigious film festivals. His production banner, Tariq Khan Productions, continues to champion artistic cinema that prioritizes substance, cultural authenticity, and emotional depth.

Originally from Jammu and Kashmir, Tariq Khan takes pride in representing stories rooted in Indian culture and regional experiences on prominent world platforms. With Bombay Story’s successful Cannes premiere, he further strengthens his reputation as a filmmaker dedicated to elevating Indian stories in the international arena.

The premiere of Bombay Story at Cannes is expected to open new doors for wider theatrical releases and global distribution. Tariq Khan Productions is a Mumbai-based production house specializing in meaningful, artistically rich films that resonate across cultures.

For More Information: Approach Entertainment / Approach Communications

9820965004 / 9716962242      info@approachentertainment.com

Visit us at www.approachentertainment.com & www.approachcommunications.in

The post Tariq Khan’s ‘Bombay Story’ Featuring Mouni Roy Premieres to Acclaimed Reception at Cannes Film Festival first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

The world of Urdu poetry has lost one of its most beloved and accessible voices. Renowned poet Dr. Bashir Badr passed away on May 28, 2026, at the age of 91 in Bhopal after a prolonged illness. Born Syed Muhammad Bashir on February 15, 1935, in Ayodhya, he leaves behind a legacy of over 18,000 couplets that captured the raw simplicity of human emotions—love, longing, loss, and resilience—with a clarity that transcended literary circles and touched the common soul.

A scholar who earned his BA, MA, and PhD from Aligarh Muslim University, Bashir Badr taught Urdu literature with distinction. His life was not without trials. In 1987, during the Meerut communal riots, he lost his home and invaluable unpublished works to fire. Yet he rebuilt and continued to create, eventually settling in Bhopal. His resilience mirrored the themes in his ghazals—quiet strength amid life’s tempests.

What set Bashir Badr apart was his gift for simplicity. In an era where poetry sometimes became dense and inaccessible, his words flowed like everyday conversations elevated to profound art. He enriched the modern ghazal with a unique diction that was contemporary, heartfelt, and deeply relatable. His collections earned him prestigious honors such as the Padma Shri and the Sahitya Akademi Award in 1999. He was truly a “people’s poet,” widely quoted in Indian pop culture.

As the founder of Approach Entertainment and Go Spiritual, I have always believed that true art bridges the material and the divine. Bashir Badr’s poetry did exactly that—it spoke of earthly desires and heartbreaks while gently pointing toward the spiritual essence of existence. His verses often carried a quiet mysticism, reflecting life’s impermanence and the beauty found in acceptance.

One of my personal favorites has always been his ghazal immortalized in the soulful voice of Chandan Das:

न जी भर के देखा न कुछ बात की बड़ी आरज़ू थी मुलाक़ात की

These lines capture an ache of unfulfilled longing with such elegant restraint. The ghazal evokes the bittersweet nature of encounters that leave us yearning for more—the missed opportunities to truly see and connect. Chandan Das’s rendition adds a haunting melody that makes the words linger long after the music fades. Whenever I listen to it, it reminds me why poetry matters: it articulates what the heart feels but cannot always express.

Bashir Badr’s passing is not just the end of an era for Urdu literature but a moment for all of us who value cultural and spiritual heritage to reflect. In today’s fast-paced world of short attention spans and digital noise, his work stands as a testament to the enduring power of sincere expression.

As his funeral prayers were offered in Bhopal and he was laid to rest at Bada Bagh graveyard, tributes have poured in from across the nation. Yet, the greatest tribute remains in the countless hearts where his couplets continue to live.

Dr. Bashir Badr may have left the physical world, but his words will keep shining.

Rest in peace, Sahab. Your words will keep the conversations alive.

— Sonu Tyagi

The post “न जी भर के देखा न कुछ बात की, बड़ी आरज़ू थी मुलाक़ात की” – A Tribute to Bashir Badr (1935–2026) first appeared on Approach Bollywood.

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.

The post Veteran Actress Anita Kanwal Opens Up on Harsh Reality of Showbiz: From 13 Shows Simultaneously to Constant Audition Rejections first appeared on Approach Bollywood.