In a brutally honest confession, Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna actress Ahsaas Channa has pulled back the curtain on the financial realities of being an actor. In her appearance on the Humans of Bombay podcast, she boldly claimed, “You can’t make money as an actor.” Instead, she revealed that it’s brand endorsements and collaborations that actually bring in the bucks.
Ahsaas explained that while she does earn through acting, it’s nowhere near enough. She might land one or two acting gigs a year, each paying decently, but it’s the 20 brand deals she does annually that truly stack up the cash. “Brands are where the money is,” she emphasised, adding that acting alone doesn’t allow for consistent financial stability.
In a heartwarming segment, Ahsaas reflected on her childhood experience working with Shah Rukh Khan, revealing she used to write him letters and draw greeting cards, which he always accepted graciously. “He was so warm and kind,” she recalled, crediting SRK for making her early film sets feel like home. She also opened up about her mother being her strongest support system, managing her work, travel, and protecting her childhood.
Speaking to host Karishma Mehta, Ahsaas acknowledged Kota Factory as a career-defining moment, one that shifted her public identity from a child star to a serious OTT performer. The show allowed her to showcase depth and emotional range, while also connecting her to a younger, more digitally active audience.
Despite these challenges, she admitted feeling “privileged” and “lucky” to be in a position where she can say no to roles that don’t align with her values, something not every actor can afford.
Her candid take is a refreshing reminder that beneath the glitz and glamour lies a harsh industry where fame doesn’t always equal fortune.
