Neil Nitin Mukehs Reveals Pleading For Working After Completing 20 Years In Bollywood; Says, “You’re Reduced To Just An Option”

Neil Nitin Mukesh recently opened up about the challenges he faces in his Bollywood career, despite having spent 20 years in the industry. In an interview, he candidly shared that he still finds himself messaging people in search of acting opportunities. Known for his roles in notable films such as New York, Johnny Gaddaar, and 7 Khoon Maaf, Neil admitted that the struggle for work continues after each project he completes.

Neil Nitin Mukesh Still Pleads For Work After 20 Years in Bollywood

Speaking with Hindi Rush, despite his extensive experience, Neil explained that he has to restart the search for roles after every film. “I still message people, asking for work. They reply immediately and say, ‘Yes, Neil, we’ll keep you in mind and will let you know if something comes up.’ It is my duty to remind them that I exist. When I debuted, perhaps only a couple of newcomers would be launched every two or three years. But now, a newcomer is launched every other week. As a result, you are reduced to just an option,” he said.

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Neil emphasized that every actor in the industry is constantly vying for good opportunities. While acknowledging that filmmaking has become a business, he stressed that his inability to guarantee box office success does not diminish his capability to create a hit film. He believes that having the right role and the right support is crucial.

Neil Nitin Mukesh On Not Asking Cousin For Work

When asked why he hasn’t sought opportunities from his cousin, well-known casting director Shanoo Sharma, Neil expressed his respect for her career and the challenges of building a brand in the casting realm. He noted that while they share a close relationship, he feels it’s unfair to ask her for favors. He trusts that if YRF (Yash Raj Films) believes he’s right for a role, they will approach him.

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Reflecting on his career, Neil noted that despite having starred in 30 films and collaborating with some of the finest directors in the country, the struggle persists. “This is a business. You have to be visible, but not too visible. Perhaps my skin tone doesn’t suit the kind of films being made today. Maybe casting directors think I don’t fit into rural roles because everyone says I look like a Hollywood star. But I am desi at heart. I believe I could have done those roles. So it hurts when people make such statements, but Sangharsh ke saath maine dosti kar li hai (I’ve made peace with the struggle),” he said.

He also recalled the financial troubles surrounding his first film, where people suggested burning the project, claiming it would never see the light of day. However, Neil held firm in his belief in the film’s potential, crediting it for the success he enjoys today.

Neil Nitin Mukesh’s Recent Projects

Most recently, Neil starred in Ashwini Dhir’s satirical action-comedy, Hisaab Barabar, alongside R. Madhavan, Kirti Kulhari, Rashami Desai, and Faisal Rashid. The film follows a railway ticket checker who discovers inconsistencies in minor bank transactions, leading to the exposure of broader systemic corruption. Hisaab Barabar is available for streaming on ZEE5.

Also Read: Neil Nitin Mukesh calls Tiger Shroff the new ‘benchmark’ for actors in Bollywood; says,”How do you survive?”