Swara Bhaskar reveals being blacklisted in Bollywood: 'There would be a price to pay'

Known for her fearless opinions, Swara Bhaskar has always spoken her mind. However, her bold stance has come at a cost. In a shocking revelation, the talented actress revealed that her political views have led to her being blacklisted by the film industry, effectively sidelining her impressive acting talent. 

Bhaskar’s filmography boasts critically acclaimed films like Nil Battey Sannata, Anaarkali of Aarah and Tanu Weds Manu. In a recent interview, she shared her thoughts on challenges she faced due to her stance on political issues. “I have been blacklisted for the kind of political opinions that I have. There's no point denying that now. It's so obvious. But I'm not very bitter about it. I chose a path and I knew there would be a price to pay," she told BBC.

Swara Bhaskar confessed that being blacklisted is painful, yet not entirely surprising. "It feels bad. I loved my work and I still love it. I was a very competent actor, hopefully, I still will be. So that part hurts, but it's fine as I understand the context, she said. Further, she clarified that she doesn't hold the Bollywood industry solely responsible for her situation."It's not solely on them. We live in a time, in a country where the dominant forces and those in power have chosen to punish people for being dissenting in their opinions. They have chosen to criminalise dissent and paint dissent as anti-national and a security threat to the country,” she said.

“I'm not the only one being punished... my friends are in jail, there are other actors who have been harassed in different ways,” she added.

Swara Bhaskar is a vocal presence on social media, frequently sharing her candid thoughts on pressing political and social issues in India. In her acting career, she began with a supporting role in the 2009 drama Madholal Keep Walking. Her most recent appearance was in the 2022 film Jahaan Chaar Yaar. Next, she will star in Mrs Falani, which has completed filming and awaits a release date announcement from the producers.