The insider-outsider debate in Bollywood has extensively highlighted how difficult it is for immensely talented newbies to get work in the film industry. As it has been revealed by several celebrities, Bollywood is a monopoly run mostly by a few big banner production houses. They have actors signed under them who bag lead roles in big banner films and are promoted largely. Whereas, most newcomers don’t even get a chance and those that do are overshadowed by the bigger fishes.
Very less newcomers get to make a mark with their talent – like Vicky Kaushal, Anushka Sharma, Deepika Padukone, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, etc.
Indian film producer Guneet Monga, who has produced memorable films like Gangs of Wasseypur, Masaan, Pagglait, The Lunchbox, etc. took to LinkedIn to share how she left her mark in the film industry despite being an outsider with zero connections.
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“I came from Delhi as a 21-year-old to the industry with dreams of making movies. I come from a very humble family with no film connections and I have now produced more than 25 movies & 25 short films in the last two decades.”
She went on to share how she made it and highlighted the importance of networking skills.
“So how did I make it? How does someone with no industry connections or money thrive in the Bollywood industry? I’ve always believed in the power of networking. Meeting people, showing your truth, and let your truth carry you forward. I believe networking has been the key to opening doors and bringing success.”
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She addressed fellow outsiders with no connections who want to make it big in the industry and urged them to dream, because they do come true.
“For people like me who come to the industry with dreams in their eyes, and ideas in their hearts, I want you to know that you can still believe.”
Quoting Author Michele Jennae, Guneet Monga wrote, “Networking is not about just connecting people. It’s about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities.”
Have a look at her full post here:
If you are a newcomer in any industry, not just Bollywood, start networking!