Actress Niki Walia has opened up about the challenges she faced when she returned to the entertainment industry after taking a break to focus on her family, revealing that her established image of elegance and affluence became a hurdle in securing diverse roles.
Reflecting on her three-decade-long career, the actress said the industry had undergone significant changes, particularly with the rise of streaming platforms and the growing demand for grounded, rural-centric stories.
Walia said stepping away from work to raise her family created a geographical distance between her and the industry. By the time she returned, the changing nature of television and OTT content had also affected casting perceptions of her.
“The industry’s perception of me became my biggest obstacle. Casting heads literally told me, ‘You just can’t look poor!’ Apparently, decades of playing poise, elegance, and class etched a permanent ‘rich lady’ sign on my forehead,” she told IANS.
The ‘Bhai Tera Star Hai’ actress also observed that the film and television industry had become more corporate, changing the nature of professional relationships. She said interactions with some long-time industry friends had become more formal, although a few producers and directors continued to maintain their earlier approach.
Walia acknowledged that she, too, had adapted to the evolving work culture by becoming more open to auditions and readings. However, she said her preparation, work ethic and professionalism had remained unchanged.
The ‘Baat Ban Jaye’ actress said she did not want casting perceptions to restrict her opportunities, particularly when hair, makeup and prosthetics could help actors transform for different roles.
“I know I’ve got the acting muscle to pull off whatever they throw at me — I just need the industry to take a leap of faith!” she said, adding that after 30 years in the profession, she hoped to be given opportunities to demonstrate her range as a performer.
Walia was most recently seen in ‘Bhai Tera Star Hai’, which also featured Raghav Juyal and Niharika NM.