Mumbai: Veteran actress Neena Gupta recently opened up about her long career and the unexpected downside of versatility. In a candid interview with Hindustan Times during promotions for Panchayat Season 4, Gupta reflected on how not being typecast may have cost her key film roles.
“If you are not typecast, you are not memorable,” she said, explaining that a consistent image often helps actors land similar roles. Known for her range—from demure homemakers to historical characters—Gupta said she was never pegged for one particular type, which made her less likely to be the go-to choice for specific roles.
She recalled her diverse television work in shows like Mirza Ghalib, Saans, and Masaba Masaba, noting how television embraced varied stories long before films. Though TV was once considered a “lower level” compared to films, Gupta is pleased that Indian cinema is now embracing more rooted, relatable characters.
After gaining fresh popularity with Badhaai Ho, she’s continued to impress in projects like Panchayat, which is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video.
