In a revealing new interview, actress Sonam Bajwa has opened up about a long-standing issue that continues to plague the Hindi film industry — typecasting. Despite being one of the most successful and versatile actresses in Punjabi cinema, Sonam says Bollywood has repeatedly perceived her only through a “glamorous” lens, limiting the roles she was offered.

The actress, who has earned acclaim across regional cinema and digital platforms, expressed disappointment that her capabilities as a performer were overshadowed by her image. Her remarks have sparked conversations across the film fraternity about how preconceived notions and appearance-based judgments continue to shape casting decisions in Bollywood.

The Journey from Regional Stardom to National Recognition

Sonam Bajwa’s career trajectory is nothing short of inspiring. Starting as a model, she transitioned into acting with regional films and soon became one of Punjabi cinema’s most beloved leading ladies. With blockbuster hits like Carry On Jatta 2, Nikka Zaildar, and Shadaa, she built a fan base that transcended language and geography.

However, despite her undeniable talent and massive popularity in North India, her journey into mainstream Bollywood wasn’t smooth. Sonam revealed that when she first began auditioning for Hindi films, many casting directors viewed her as a glamorous figure — perfect for songs or secondary roles, but not for complex, performance-driven characters.

“I felt like they had already decided who I was before I even auditioned,” Sonam shared in the interview. “They saw my photos and assumed I could only play stylish, glamorous roles — not serious or emotional ones.”

 

 

 

 

 

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The Reality of Typecasting in Bollywood

Typecasting has long been a controversial issue in Bollywood. From actors being confined to comedic roles to actresses being labeled as “item girls” or “romantic leads,” the industry’s reliance on predefined images has limited creative freedom.

Sonam’s confession shines a spotlight on how female actors, in particular, are often categorized based on looks rather than range. Once an actress is associated with glamour, breaking into meaningful cinema can be a steep climb.

Bollywood’s history is filled with similar stories — actors like Bipasha Basu, Urvashi Rautela, and even Deepika Padukone in her early years faced similar struggles to move past the “beautiful face” tag. Sonam’s case, however, stands out because she has already proven her acting chops in multiple languages.

Her statement also exposes a deeper irony: while Bollywood prides itself on evolving storytelling, its internal perception of talent often remains rigid.

Fighting Stereotypes — One Role at a Time

Refusing to let stereotypes define her, Sonam Bajwa has continued to pick roles that highlight her versatility. Her performance in recent Punjabi dramas and her foray into OTT platforms have been well received.

With her latest Hindi film Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat, Sonam says she finally feels she’s breaking the mold. The film features her in a layered, emotional role — a far cry from the glamorous characters she’s usually offered.

“I wanted people to see that I can carry emotional depth, that I can be raw, vulnerable, and real,” Sonam stated. “I’ve worked hard to prove that glamour and acting are not mutually exclusive.”

This determination is resonating with audiences and critics alike. Viewers have praised her screen presence, noting how she brings both beauty and intensity to her roles — a combination Bollywood should embrace more often.

The Broader Industry Conversation

Sonam’s remarks have triggered broader discussions among filmmakers and actors. Many insiders admit that the Hindi film industry tends to play it safe, often casting based on image and popularity rather than suitability or talent.

Filmmaker and casting professionals are beginning to recognize the lost opportunities this creates. Typecasting not only restricts an actor’s growth but also stifles the diversity of stories that can be told.

Bollywood’s new wave of cinema — driven by streaming platforms and audience maturity — is gradually changing that. But as Sonam’s story proves, progress is slow, and biases remain deeply ingrained.

Industry analysts note that the rise of regional cinema’s popularity across India could change these dynamics. Actors like Sonam Bajwa, Rashmika Mandanna, and Sai Pallavi represent a new generation of stars who bridge linguistic divides — proving that strong performances can travel far beyond their native industries.

The Pressure of Image and Perception

For female actors, especially those known for their glamour, the pressure to maintain a particular image can be both a blessing and a burden. While it brings visibility, it also creates artistic confinement.

Sonam Bajwa’s candor about her struggles reflects the emotional cost of such perceptions. “When people see you only for your looks, they overlook your journey, your craft, and your growth,” she said. “It takes years to undo that bias.”

Her courage to speak up has earned her widespread support on social media, with fans and co-stars praising her honesty. Many have lauded her as a voice for every actress who has faced similar prejudice.

Changing Winds in Bollywood

Fortunately, the industry is not static. A wave of new directors and OTT storytellers is championing authentic, character-driven narratives. These creators are more open to experimenting with unconventional casting — choosing actors for their performance potential rather than established images.

Sonam’s emergence in this evolving landscape comes at the right time. As audiences demand realism and emotional honesty over glitz, actresses like her have more opportunities to showcase depth and versatility.

Streaming platforms have also democratized access, allowing regional stars to reach global audiences. Sonam’s growing international fan base is a testament to how genuine talent can transcend industry walls when given the right platform.

What’s Next for Sonam Bajwa

With her latest success and newfound recognition in Bollywood, Sonam Bajwa is now eyeing diverse, layered roles that challenge traditional boundaries. She has hinted at collaborations with filmmakers known for experimental cinema and has expressed interest in tackling genres like thrillers and biographical dramas.

“I want to surprise people,” she said. “If they think they know what kind of roles I do — I want to change that perception completely.”

This ambition mirrors the evolution of many actresses who have transformed their careers by daring to break molds — from Priyanka Chopra venturing into Hollywood to Vidya Balan redefining female-led cinema.

Sonam Bajwa’s candid revelations about typecasting are more than just celebrity gossip — they’re a mirror reflecting Bollywood’s persistent identity problem. Her journey symbolizes the struggle of many actors striving to be recognized for talent over appearance.

As the industry evolves and audiences become more discerning, it’s time Bollywood rethinks how it defines its stars. Sonam’s story is not just about one actress breaking free from stereotypes — it’s about an entire industry learning to see beyond them.

Her message is clear: talent deserves to be seen, not assumed.