Jugal Hansraj opens up on Bollywood rejections and career lows, ‘It can affect you...’

Actor and director Jugal Hansraj spoke about beginning his career as a child actor in Shekhar Kapur’s Masoom, sharing fond memories of his early projects. He also reflected on his transition to adult roles, the many rejections he faced, and how he navigated difficult phases in the Hindi film industry.

Work drought after adult debut

After stepping into adult roles with the 1994 film Aa Gale Lag Jaa, Jugal Hansraj faced a prolonged lack of opportunities. Speaking to Pinkvilla, he said, “This has been constant in my career—there would be a commitment, but later the film would get shelved. It happened with big producers of that time. When I was younger, I was heartbroken by it. But I couldn’t get angry because nobody was doing it on purpose. The circumstances were beyond anyone’s control. Then what can you do? You just move on.”

Strength of family support

Talking about how he coped during these lows, the actor said, “I had a very strong support system. My family consisted of my parents and my older brother. Now only my elder brother is there, but he is still a constant source of support. I also had friends who would always encourage me. If you have a good support system and a level head, it helps—otherwise, it can affect you. Too much success can affect you, and too much failure can also affect you. I think it’s best to take both with a pinch of salt, as part of life.”

Breakthrough with ‘Mohabbatein’

Jugal Hansraj’s major breakthrough came with the 2000 blockbuster Mohabbatein, starring Shah Rukh Khan and Amitabh Bachchan. He went on to appear in popular films such as Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham... (2001), Salaam Namaste (2005), and Aaja Nachle (2007). He later played the lead in Pyaar Impossible! (2010) and voiced the protagonist in the animated film Roadside Romeo (2008), which he also directed and which went on to win a National Award.

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