Nushrratt Bharuccha is never one to be afraid of speaking her mind, and her latest statements on ambition vs. opportunism are no exception, proving once again why she is one of the most honest voices in the industry. In a refreshingly candid conversation at a recent event, Nushrratt responded to the commonly maligned charge of being called an ‘opportunist’.
Instead of disowning the word, Nushrratt chose to embrace it. She wondered how come ambition is always eyed with suspicion, especially when it is from a woman. Nushrratt shared, “When I look back at my journey, I don’t think wanting opportunities is something to be embarrassed about. If it fits my creative intention and my interest, I don’t see why I should say no to it.” She believes that everyone is waiting in a line because they want something, and wanting more in life is not a bad thing.
Nevertheless, Nushrratt has been very careful in making a distinction between ambition and immorality. Nushrratt believes that “the problem doesn’t exist in wanting opportunities, but how one chooses to go about while taking them.” She says that “being an opportunist is not a bad thing, but how one chooses to go about when they are an opportunist” is what needs to be attended to, because only the individual can define what is “accountable.”
The actress also spoke of her growing understanding of ambition, which has happened over time, in a way that is not learned but experienced. She said that when one’s values, perceptions, and thoughts are in order, when they feel right, they are the right ones for the person. This is particularly significant in an industry where people are always comparing themselves with others.
Her words speak loudly in a setting where ambition is sometimes encouraged in men but doubted in women. By taking this bold step to reclaim space for ambition, growth, and belief in oneself, Nushrratt has been able to redefine success, which stems from clarity, not apology.
This is evident in her entire body of work. Be it Pyaar Ka Punchnama, Sonu Ke Titu Ki Sweety, Dream Girl, which are commercially successful, and/or movies such as Chhorii, Janhit Mein Jaari, which are performance-oriented, Nushrratt has managed to strike a balance. Instead, she has opted for assignments that are challenging to her, assist her in growing as an actress, and enable her to reach out to people of diverse age groups and mindsets. Thus, Nushrratt Bharuccha is continuing her journey, which defines her, not by a tag, but by her choice, beliefs, and conviction.
