A National Award-winning actor and one of Bollywood’s few successful outsiders, Kriti Sanon reflected on the challenges of not belonging to a film family.
Speaking at a News18 event, Kriti Sanon shared how outsiders can navigate Bollywood’s challenges. “You need to be truly passionate because there are no shortcuts and no free lunches. Hard work is essential, and most importantly, don’t give up. When you don’t come from a film background, nothing comes on a platter. People will tell you your dream is too big, that you need contacts or connections. They’ll point out everything, too short, too tall, too thin, not the right shape, but rarely will anyone say, ‘You can do it.’ That belief has to come from you,” she said.
Kriti made her film debut with Heropanti in 2014 and went on to deliver hits like Dilwale, Bareilly Ki Barfi, Luka Chuppi, and Housefull 4. She earned the National Film Award and a Filmfare Award for Best Actress in 2022 for her performance in Mimi. Reflecting on her journey, she said, “You need to stay driven, passionate, and patient. Success comes when the time is right, but you must keep working on yourself. Don’t see the waiting years as wasted, they prepare you to be better. It’ll happen when it’s meant to, but you have to keep at it.” Recently, Kriti scored box office success with Teri Baaton Mein Aisa Uljha Jiya and Crew (both in 2024). She will next appear in Aanand L Rai’s Tere Ishk Mein opposite Dhanush, and Homi Adajania’s Cocktail 2 alongside Shahid Kapoor and Rashmika Mandanna.
