Actress Delnaaz Irani, who has been receiving a positive response for her performance in the recently released streaming series Chumbak, says she does not view being typecast as a negative development in her career.
Irani believes that when audiences and the industry associate an actor with a particular kind of performance, it can also reflect recognition of the artiste’s strengths.
Speaking to IANS during the promotions of Chumbak in Mumbai’s BKC area, Irani appeared alongside Arjun Bijlani, Helly Shah, Anant Joshi and Amyra Dastur.
Asked about characters that have left a lasting impression on audiences and whether such associations can become restrictive, Irani said she considers the recognition a positive aspect of her career.
“Main aaj tak Sweetu ka hi kha rahi hoon (I’m still reaping the benefits of playing Sweetu),” she said.
Irani played Sweetu in the Shah Rukh Khan-starrer Kal Ho Naa Ho, with the character subsequently becoming one of the widely remembered comic characters in Hindi cinema.
The actress said that in an industry with numerous shows, channels, artistes and platforms, an actor being recognised for a particular style or genre is not necessarily a disadvantage.
“At least you are being recognised as an actor for your work, and for your forte. When people think of comedy, they think of me. I see it as a good thing,” Irani told IANS.
She acknowledged that actors should continue exploring different kinds of roles but said she was not opposed to being associated with a particular strength.
“As an actor, it’s important to explore, I’m in no way against it,” she said.
Irani added that actors should also value the recognition they receive from audiences and the industry.
“But, if your work has fetched you value in society or industry, one should respect it, we should embrace what the audience thinks of us,” she said.