Veteran actress Neena Gupta, who has been captivating audiences with her performances in recent films like 'Tu Meri Main Tera Main Tera Tu Meri' and 'Metro...In Dino', has opened up with striking honesty about the regrets and realisations from her long career. The actress, whose career saw a spectacular second innings with the hit film 'Badhaai Ho', admits that the recognition she enjoys today far surpasses what she experienced in her younger days.
A Late Bloomer's Reflection: "What Did I Do Wrong?"
In a candid conversation with Humans of Bombay, Neena Gupta delved into the past, questioning the delayed arrival of her due success. "I keep thinking—what did I do wrong that I got my due so late? I see that, mostly, it has been my fault," she confessed. The actress has chosen to focus on the present, acknowledging the limitations and opportunities that come with age. "At my age, I can’t have everything anymore, nor can I play younger roles. Whatever is coming my way now is quite nice," she stated, adding that she tries not to dwell on missed opportunities from her youth.
Her frankness extended to comparing herself with contemporary heroines. "I often think that compared to many heroines today, I could have done a better job and even looked better. These thoughts do come, but what is the point?" she remarked, showcasing a mix of self-awareness and acceptance.
Taking Responsibility: Lack of Patience and Guidance
Neena Gupta did not shy away from taking personal responsibility for the trajectory of her career. She identified key internal factors that held her back. "It was my fault because I didn’t always have the patience. I looked for the wrong things. Most of the time, I had low self-esteem, and I believe these factors hampered my growth," she revealed. She also highlighted the absence of a mentor in the industry. "I also didn’t have anyone to guide me, no godmother or godfather."
Her perspective shifted when she understood the true nature of show business. "Eventually, I realised this industry is a business. There’s nothing emotional about it. I didn’t understand the rules or the game," she said, outlining a crucial learning from her journey.
The Defining Mistake: Why 'Saath Saath' Was a Turning Point
When pinpointing a specific career turning point, Neena Gupta identified her very first film. She made her debut with the 1982 film 'Saath Saath', starring alongside Farooque Shaikh and Deepti Naval in a supporting role. According to the actress, this choice had lasting consequences.
"My biggest mistake was doing Saath Saath. That film took away my chance of being seen as a leading heroine," she stated unequivocally. However, she has found peace in owning this error. "So yes, it’s my fault. And I’ve realised that once you accept it as your mistake, you become less bitter. Otherwise, you keep blaming the world, and that never ends. It’s better to accept your mistakes and move on—that’s the only way forward," she concluded, offering a powerful lesson in accountability and moving forward.
Today, Neena Gupta stands as a celebrated figure in Indian cinema, her talent finally aligned with widespread success and acclaim, proving that it's never too late for a remarkable comeback.
