After delivering a standout performance as the antagonist in Brahmastra: Part One- Shiva (2022), many expected Mouni Roy to skyrocket into more film roles. She played an iconic opening-scene villain, becoming a major talking point for her bold portrayal alongside big names like Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt. But fast fame doesn’t always translate into opportunity, and Mouni is candid about that.
In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter India, she shared that even she was surprised when bigger roles didn’t start pouring in after Brahmastra. “I’ve sat and dwelt on it,” she admitted. While she expected doors to open, she found that “my name wasn’t being taken in a lot of rooms.” Despite the setback, Mouni said work never stopped coming her way.
Instead of sulking, she transformed any disappointment into action. She continued to take up diverse projects, including three web shows on Disney+ Hotstar: Sultan of Delhi, Showtime, and Salakaar. She also appeared on the reality show Temptation Island, judged other TV programs, and kept her screen presence strong.
For Mouni, dwelling on missed opportunities doesn’t define success. She chooses to focus on gratitude, optimism, and the journey so far. “I’m a happy, optimistic person… 10 or 15 years ago, I would have been praying for this life,” she shared, acknowledging how far she’s come. She credits her fans for their support and commits to giving her best effort in every role.
Discussing the challenges actors face in getting noticed, Mouni offered a glimpse behind closed doors. Casting, she explained, isn’t always straightforward. Even strong performances may go unseen if a director or producer can’t visualize an actor for a part. “Actors are always the last in the food chain,” she said. By the time scripts and production houses are finalized, casting decisions might just overlook deserving performers, and there might not even be a test or audition call.
