Who is Anita Kanwal? Shah Rukh Khan’s co-actress once opened up about being forgotten by the film industry. ‘I feel so useless’

Anita Kanwal was one of the most recognisable faces in the film industry who, despite spending 3 decades in Bollywood, is now facing financial struggles. The actress, in a recent interview, revealed that her savings could dry up in a year or so, which makes it all the more important for her to find work soon. Although her children are ready to support her financially, Anita wants to earn her own money. This is, however, not the first time that the 72-year-old has spoken about the challenges of surviving in the cinema world.

Anita Kanwal on being forgotten by Bollywood

Back in May, Anita sat for an interview with Siddharth Kannan, where she talked about battling self-doubt and feeling ‘useless’ with no projects in hand. The actress admitted that despite being a part of Bollywood for so many years, she feels forgotten by the industry.

Anita told Siddharth Kannan that she is hurt by the lack of work, admitting that the feeling sometimes pushes her to the brink of self-destruction. Recalling a conversation with her daughter, Anita said that she had questioned her life’s purpose.

Anita Kanwal on lack of work

The actress pointed out that she was contributing nothing to society and her craft despite proving her acting mettle, playing versatile roles and winning awards. Although Anita acknowledged that she has aged, the actress did not view it as an obstruction for directors to cast her in age-appropriate roles.

‘I am not asking to be cast as a 12-year-old or a 13-year-old. I want to be cast as a 70-year-old,’ said Anita, giving the example of Hollywood star Meryl Streep, who continues to bag exciting projects even at 76. Anita claimed that if older actresses in other industries were getting work, then why wasn’t she enjoying the same opportunities? ‘I feel so useless’, she disclosed, expressing her frustration.

Who is Anita Kanwal

Before making her entry in films, Anita Kanwal was a popular television actress, having worked in shows like Banegi Apni Baat, Shanti and Sonpari. She was also a part of Sasural Genda Phool and Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai.

Anita forayed into Bollywood with her maiden venture Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa, starring Shah Rukh Khan in the lead. She also appeared in movies like Mujhse Dosti Karoge! and director Prakash Jha’s Gangaajal. Anita was last seen in the 2024 series Raisinghani vs Raisinghani.