Actress Helly Shah, known for her roles in popular television dramas and her recent foray into films, has spoken about the impact of nepotism in the entertainment industry, sharing how it affects opportunities and mental well-being.
On The Free Press Journal's show Sheroes, Helly addressed the emotional toll that rejection and professional setbacks can take on actors, especially when those rejections seem tied not to talent, but to privilege and connections.
Responding to a question about losing work due to nepotism, she admitted, "Obviously bura lagta hai because deep down you know you are capable of doing what the other person is doing and getting."
Without naming anyone, Helly stated that nepotism isn't unique to the entertainment industry, but is more visible and talked about in this space. "Nepotism har industry mein chalta hai, but it's just that our industry is out there and people talk a lot more about it. But, as an artist, I do feel bad," she said.
The actor also expressed a sense of helplessness when deserving talent doesn't translate into opportunities.
"I feel that the kind of opportunities others get, we don't always receive. But what can you do? If someone tells me, 'You can do this, this, or this,' I'll do it. I can meet people, give auditions but beyond that, what else can I do? I can just manifest and pray," the 29-year-old actress said.
Despite facing difficult moments, Helly shared that she tries not to dwell too long on disappointments. Recalling a personal setback, she revealed, "I'm not someone who holds onto things for too long. Yes, it does hurt, and there have been a few such instances. There was a big project I was working on. I was very happy about it, but it got shelved. It wasn't like someone replaced me, but honestly, it felt like a breakup. That’s how bad it felt. I was so heartbroken, I had so many expectations."
The actress added, "But I've realised that expectations can make you extremely sad. Since then, I've stopped expecting anything from anyone. You have to handle these things with maturity."
Helly made her acting debut in 2010 with the show Zindagi Ka Har Rang...Gulaal. She has also starred in other shows like Ishq Mein Marjawan 2, Laal Ishq, Sufiyana Pyaar Mera, Diya Aur Baati Hum, Swaragini and more.
