Swara Bhasker, a name synonymous with candidness and forthrightness, has recently opened up about the professional repercussions she has faced due to her outspoken nature. Known for her unfiltered views on cinema, society, and politics, Swara has often found herself at the center of controversies. In a recent interview with Connect Cine, the actor revealed that her vocal stance on various issues has led to a significant decline in Bollywood offers.
Swara, who gained widespread recognition with her role in “Tanu Weds Manu,” shared that her passion for acting has been overshadowed by the industry’s perception of her as a controversial figure. “I loved my job and chose this profession for my love for acting. I wanted to do so many roles and acting assignments. I feel bad I didn’t get as many chances as I wanted. I am tagged as a controversial actor. Directors, producers, and distributors start speaking ill of you. Aapki ek image ban jati hai,” she lamented.
The actor emphasized that her decision to be vocal was a conscious one. “I don’t want to act as a victim because I chose this path for myself. I decided that I will be vocal and put forth my opinion on issues. I could’ve chosen to stay silent. If I hadn’t expressed myself, I would have felt suffocated,” Swara explained.
Swara’s career began with “Madholal Keep Walking” in 2009, followed by a brief role in “Guzaarish” (2010). However, it was her performances in films like “Tanu Weds Manu” (2011), “Raanjhanaa” (2013), “Nil Battey Sannata” (2016), and “Veere Di Wedding” (2018) that cemented her place in Bollywood. Despite her talent and dedication, Swara’s outspoken nature has often led to her being sidelined by filmmakers.
In the interview, Swara candidly discussed the impact of her outspokenness on her career. “There is a cost to not getting so many acting projects, including financial and emotional. I am tagged as a controversial actor. Directors, producers, and distributors start speaking ill of you. Aapki ek image ban jati hai,” she said. The actor admitted that while she could have remained silent, it was crucial for her to stay true to herself. “Agar main yeh sab nahin kehti to ghut ghut ke mar jati,” she added.
Swara’s political opinions and activism have made her a target for significant trolling and harassment, which in turn has affected her career. Despite these challenges, she remains undeterred, emphasizing the importance of staying true to her beliefs and continuing to use her platform to speak out on issues that matter to her.
Swara also shared an anecdote about her husband, Fahad Ahmad, after the screening of her last film, “Jahaan Chaar Yaar.” She recalled, “Woh film bahot zyada chali nahin thi par maine bahot mehnat ki thi. After the screening, he came out and told me, ‘Tumne sach mein bahot bada sacrifice kiya hai manna padega. Tum itni acchi actress ho tumhe aur kaam karna chahiye tha. Ab tum chup hojao aur filmein karo.’ In that moment, I felt very seen.”
Swara tied the knot with Fahad Ahmad, a young political leader, in 2023. The couple welcomed their daughter, Raabiyaa, on September 23, 2023. Despite the personal joy, Swara’s professional journey continues to be marred by the industry’s reluctance to embrace her outspoken nature.
Swara’s story is a testament to the challenges faced by those who choose to speak their mind in an industry that often values conformity over authenticity. Her journey underscores the importance of staying true to oneself, even in the face of adversity. As Swara continues to navigate the complexities of her career, her unwavering commitment to her beliefs remains a source of inspiration for many.
