Neena Gupta Reflects on Her Journey: From Struggles to Success

Neena Gupta's Remarkable Career Journey

Neena Gupta embarked on her film career three decades ago with minor roles in Raman Kumar's 'Saath Saath' and Richard Attenborough's 'Gandhi'. Despite facing a challenging phase in her career, she made a triumphant return with the film 'Badhaai Ho'.

Expressing her gratitude, Neena stated, "Instead of counting the candles on my birthday cake, I prefer to count my blessings. I have a wonderful life, a fulfilling career during a time when many stars are struggling, a happy family, and a successful daughter. What more could I wish for?"

She acknowledges that 'Badhaai Ho' was a turning point in her life. "Though it came later in my career, it was the breakthrough I needed. I feel transformed and more self-assured... I could pen my autobiography 'Sach Kahun Toh' thanks to 'Badhaai Ho'. Success elevates your confidence. You may know your worth, but true confidence comes with recognition and success. Writing the book became effortless because of 'Badhaai Ho'. My self-esteem has improved significantly (laughs). I am eternally grateful to director Amit Sharma for this opportunity."

Neena Gupta, a prominent figure in the parallel cinema movement, believes she has never been in a better position as an actress. During the 1970s and 80s, when filmmakers like Shyam Benegal and Govind Nihalani were at the helm of parallel cinema, leading roles were often given to Shabana Azmi and Smita Patil, leaving Neena with limited opportunities.

Reflecting on her past, Neena admitted, "There was a scarcity of roles for me back then. My acting career might have faded if television hadn't emerged."

In 1998, her involvement in the serial 'Saans', which tackled the theme of an extramarital affair, revitalized her career. However, she often found herself in a dry spell regarding film roles. In 2017, she took to social media to seek acting opportunities.

Neena shared, "That plea truly worked in my favor. I began receiving numerous offers, including the ensemble cast film 'Veere Di Wedding' featuring Kareena and Sonam Kapoor. I also landed intriguing roles in Nikhil Advani's 'Mulk' and Dibakar Banerjee's 'Sandeep Pinkie Farar'. Then came 'Badhaai Ho'."

On November 2, 1989, Neena Gupta welcomed her daughter Masaba, whose father is the renowned West Indian cricketer Vivian Richards. Neena's decision to raise her as a single mother sent ripples through the conservative Indian entertainment industry.

Looking back, Neena has no regrets about her choice. However, she wishes Masaba could have had a father figure at home to share parenting duties. "Having Masaba was the best decision of my life. But if I could relive my life, I would want a supportive family and husband by my side. I would prefer the child's father (Vivian Richards) to be closer, rather than distant."

Nonetheless, Neena expresses her gratitude for her daughter, stating, "What I have is invaluable. Yes, I made sacrifices, but it has all been worthwhile. Masaba is the greatest blessing in my life."