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News India Live, Digital Desk: The struggle to get work in films is not limited to just a new artist, but it is equally difficult for those who have been working here for years. The name of Iranian origin actress Elnaaz Norouzi does not need any recognition today, but her recent statement has started a new debate. Elnaaz believes that no matter how much good work you do, a part of the industry always looks at you as an ‘outsider’.
Nepotism outweighs talent
Elnaaz openly admitted that even today it happens many times that she is almost finalized for a film, but at the last moment she is removed and the role is given to a ‘star kid’. “It’s not just a one-time thing, it happens often,” says Elnaaz.
This is quite disappointing for those artists who leave their country and family and come here to make a name for themselves only on the basis of their talent. Elnaaz believes that star kids have those ‘connections’ due to which they can easily get a second or third chance, whereas for an outsider, even a single mistake can prove costly.
Hard work continues, but the struggle has not diminished
Despite being a part of ‘Sacred Games’ and many big films, Elnaaz feels that even today she has to work twice as hard as others to prove herself. She says that getting a place in the offices of big film makers of the industry is as difficult today as it was in her initial days. Here, sometimes more importance is given to whose family you come from than your ability.
This thing of Elnaaz is a lesson for all of us
This experience of Elnaaz Norouzi is not just the story of an actress, but it is the truth of thousands of youth who come to Mumbai from small towns or abroad with big dreams in their eyes. She says that she is not sad about this, rather this reality inspires her to work harder.
But the question remains the same – will Bollywood ever be able to put talent above its background? Even in this era of 2026, if a successful actress is feeling insecure and an ‘outsider’, then perhaps we need to re-look at our choices and the way the industry works.
What do you think about this? Is talent really being pushed back because of surname? Please tell us your thoughts.
