Veteran actress Usha Nadkarni, widely loved for her powerful performances in television and films, recently shared an interesting anecdote about why she turned down an audition for Zoya Akhtar’s 2019 blockbuster Gully Boy. Known for her outspoken nature, the actress recalled how she felt disrespected when she was asked to audition despite having decades of experience in the industry.
In a candid conversation, Nadkarni explained that she had been approached to audition for a role in Gully Boy. However, instead of feeling honored, she found the request unnecessary. The seasoned actress questioned why a filmmaker as established as Zoya Akhtar, who comes from a well-known film family, would need her to “prove herself” despite her long-standing reputation. “Why should I give an audition after working for so many years? If you want to know my caliber, type my name in the computer and watch my work. My performances are out there for everyone to see,” she asserted.
Nadkarni, who has portrayed memorable characters in films as well as on television — including the iconic role of Savita Deshmukh in Pavitra Rishta — emphasized that the industry sometimes undervalues experienced actors. She pointed out that many casting processes today focus more on protocols and formalities than on respecting the body of work an artist has already delivered. For her, being asked to audition felt like a lack of recognition for the years of effort she has put into cinema and television.
She also didn’t shy away from calling out the privilege within the industry. Without directly attacking, Nadkarni hinted at the nepotism debate, suggesting that children of established filmmakers often get easy access to opportunities, while veteran actors still have to prove themselves again and again. “If a star kid can be signed without a test, then why do we need to repeatedly audition after proving ourselves for decades?” she asked.
Although she did not end up working in Gully Boy, Nadkarni expressed no regrets. She praised the film for its strong performances and unique subject but maintained her stand that she deserved more respect as an artist. “I don’t believe in begging for roles. If someone truly wants me in their project, they should know my worth,” she added.
Her remarks have sparked a fresh round of discussion on how Bollywood treats its senior actors. Many fans have supported her statement, saying that someone with her stature should never be asked to audition at this stage of her career.
