Bollywood actress Huma Qureshi has never shied away from speaking her mind. Known for her strong performances in films like Gangs of Wasseypur, Badlapur, and the web series Maharani, Qureshi recently opened up about the unspoken challenges in the Hindi film industry — specifically ageism and gatekeeping — shedding light on the systemic biases actors face, particularly women.
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Speaking Her Truth
In a candid interview, Huma discussed how age and appearance often become the dominant factors in determining an actress’s opportunities in the industry, overshadowing talent and experience.
“There’s an expiry date put on women in Bollywood,” she said. “After a certain age, you’re expected to fade into the background or take on stereotypical roles. It’s frustrating when you’re still at the top of your game, still evolving as an artist, and yet you’re overlooked just because of numbers.”
Qureshi emphasized that while male actors enjoy long and flourishing careers — often well into their 50s or 60s — female actors are frequently typecast or written off in their late 30s or early 40s.
The Problem of Gatekeeping
The actress also spoke openly about gatekeeping in the film industry, where a few powerful individuals and production houses dominate casting decisions.
“There are invisible walls. Sometimes it feels like if you don’t belong to a certain circle, or if you’re not constantly networking, you’re just not considered — no matter how talented you are,” she explained. “I’ve had to carve my own space, often without a godfather or mentor. It’s been hard, but I’m proud of every step.”
Huma acknowledged that while OTT platforms have opened up more opportunities for unconventional roles and diverse stories, the traditional system of Bollywood still favors a select few.
A Call for Change
Qureshi’s remarks come at a time when many female actors — from Neena Gupta to Radhika Apte — have spoken out against similar issues. The conversation around inclusivity, fair representation, and dismantling industry biases is growing louder.
“We need to stop reducing women to their age or looks. Stories need to evolve, and so should the roles written for women. And more importantly, doors should be open for everyone, not just a privileged few.”
Huma’s honest take is both a critique and a call to action — urging the industry to look beyond superficial measures and appreciate the depth, range, and longevity of female talent.
Looking Ahead
Despite the obstacles, Huma Qureshi continues to push boundaries with her choice of roles and performances. Whether it’s portraying a gritty politician in Maharani or taking on meaty roles in content-driven cinema, she remains a voice for change — both on and off screen.
Her message is clear: talent should not be limited by age or access. And as conversations about equality gain momentum in Bollywood, voices like Huma’s are more important than ever.