Mumbai, 29 October (H.S.): Actor Manoj Bajpayee has offered a candid assessment of Bollywood’s working culture and his place within the film industry, admitting that despite spending decades in cinema, he still does not feel entirely at home in it.

“I am part of the film industry, yet I do not feel that I belong here,” the actor said, challenging the widely promoted notion of Bollywood as one big family.

According to Bajpayee, the industry’s reality is far removed from this perception. While talent and hard work remain important, personal connections also play a significant role. He observed that genuine camaraderie and a willingness among actors to celebrate one another’s achievements are not always evident.

The actor believes that an artist’s true identity should be defined by the quality of their work and their abilities. For him, remaining honest and committed to his craft matters far more than personal relationships or public acclaim. He maintains that performers should concentrate on honing their skills and continually strive to improve their work.

Bajpayee emphasised that dedication to one’s craft and consistent quality are essential for sustaining a long-term career in any field. His remarks reflect his belief that professional credibility should rest on merit rather than industry connections or external validation.

The actor is currently appearing in Netflix’s web series ‘Gajab Raat’. Over the course of his career, Bajpayee has established a distinctive identity through his performances in a wide range of roles.

His candid observations about factionalism and personal relationships in Bollywood have once again drawn attention to the challenges of navigating the film industry. His comments underline his determination to maintain his position through the strength of his performances rather than personal connections or praise.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar