New Delhi: Shehnaaz Gill, who became a household name after Bigg Boss 13 in 2019, has opened up about the challenges she has faced in her career and the struggle to find meaningful roles. The actress, who was last seen in the Punjabi film Ikk Kudi, says she has often been used merely as a “prop” in films and is still waiting for strong, impactful stories that do justice to her potential.
“Nobody Is Betting Money on Me”: Shehnaaz on Bigg Boss 19 Appearance
During her recent appearance on Bigg Boss 19, host Salman Khan asked Shehnaaz about her ongoing journey in the industry. Responding candidly, she said,
“Mere upar koi paise nahi laga raha, toh maine khud par laga diye. (Nobody is investing money in me, so I invested in myself.)”
In a new interview with Faridoon Shahryar, Shehnaaz explained the deeper meaning behind the statement.
She said it stemmed from disappointment over the kind of roles being offered to her.
“I Am Being Used as a Prop”
Clarifying her struggle, Shehnaaz shared:
“I am not getting good stories. I am being used as a prop in films. I keep seeing the same kind of stories—nothing unique, no strong messages. I was getting a lot of offers, but I feel that if someone invests in me, it should be worthwhile.”
She revealed that Punjabi film offers have been coming her way for the last five years, but she turned them down because she wanted to return to the industry with a concept that was fresh and meaningful.
“I wanted someone to bet on me with a different concept. I wanted to make a comeback in Punjab in a new way, especially after returning after 3–4 years,” she said.
On Facing Criticism for Career Choices
Shehnaaz also spoke about the criticism she has faced, including comments suggesting she was “wasting her time.” However, she disagreed.
“I wasn’t wasting time. I was learning—and that is very important. It’s crucial to understand scripts and films. I didn’t want to do anything just for the sake of it because these things stay. People didn’t enjoy some of my past work. They wanted to see more of Shehnaaz.”
She added that even a short appearance should leave an impact:
“If you are on screen even for two minutes, it should be impactful. That wasn’t happening.”
“Why Run Behind Bollywood?”
Reflecting on her long-term goals, Shehnaaz said she wants to prove herself first as an actor:
“Why are we running behind Bollywood? I will work there someday, but first I want to prove myself. I’m giving auditions, doing the best I can, but proving myself as an actor was important.”
Her Latest Film: Ikk Kudi
Shehnaaz Gill was most recently seen in the Punjabi film Ikk Kudi, directed by Amarjit Singh Saron. The film also features Nirmal Rishi, Harby Sangha, Udaybir Sandhu, and several others in key roles.
The project is particularly special for Shehnaaz as it marks her debut as a producer under her home banner, Shehnaaz Gill Production—a major step in her commitment to invest in herself and shape her own career path.