Shweta Basu Prasad won a National Award at 17, but a controversy derailed her career. She made a comeback with 'Badrinath Ki Dulhania' in 2017 and became a sensation on OTT. Now, she is re-establishing her identity.
Shweta Basu: Many artists come into the Bollywood and television industry, but some faces capture people's hearts at a young age with their acting. One such talented artist is Shweta Basu Prasad, who gained national recognition by winning a National Award at the age of 17. However, a controversy overshadowed her career, causing everything to fall apart. Nevertheless, she did not give up and made a comeback, re-establishing her identity in the industry.
A Brilliant Start to a Career as a Child Artist
Shweta Basu Prasad started acting at a very young age. In 2002, she played the roles of two twin sisters, Chinchu and Minchu, in Vishal Bhardwaj's film 'Makdee.' She was awarded the National Film Award for this role. This achievement at such a young age is a matter of pride for any actor. After that, she also made her mark on TV. She played different roles in shows like 'Kahaani Ghar Ghar Kii,' 'Karishma Kaa Karishma,' and 'Shaktimaan.' Shweta was not only limited to Hindi films; she also worked in Telugu and Tamil films and established a b identity.
Made a Name in the South Industry Too
Shweta Basu Prasad also proved herself in the South industry. Especially the Telugu film 'Kotha Bangaru Lokam' (2008) made her popular among South audiences. This film was a super hit, and after that, she got work in films like 'Ride,' 'Kalvar King,' and 'Kasko.' Her acting was well-liked by the audience, and she was seen as an emerging star.
The 2014 Controversy That Changed Everything
Shweta's career was progressing rapidly, but in 2014, her life changed in an instant. Her name surfaced in a sex scandal in Banjara Hills, Hyderabad. The police allegedly linked her to a high-profile racket. Although she was later given a clean chit in this case, the controversy had a profound impact on her career. Film producers and directors distanced themselves from her. The actress, who was once the heartthrob of the audience, stopped getting work.
A Path of Introspection and Writing
In this difficult time, Shweta turned to writing and filmmaking to support herself. She worked on some documentary projects and also took screenwriting training. She said in interviews that this time was for self-reflection and self-strengthening.
A Sensational Comeback in 2017
On her own, she prepared for a comeback and finally made a comeback in 2017 with the film 'Badrinath Ki Dulhania.' In this film, she played the role of Varun Dhawan's sister-in-law, Urvashi. Even though it was a supporting role, the audience liked her once again. After this, she stepped into the world of web series and OTT platforms. She also played the lead role in TV shows like 'Chandra Nandini,' and then appeared in a b role alongside Pankaj Tripathi in 'Criminal Justice 4.'
Now an OTT Star
Shweta has now made OTT her priority more than films. Her character of Lekha Agastya in 'Criminal Justice' was highly praised. She is now becoming a part of select and impactful projects. She has shown that no controversy can be bigger than your talent and courage.
Personal Life and Maturity in Thinking
Shweta has learned a lot from her experiences. Now she sees life in a more balanced and sensible way. In her interviews, she repeatedly reiterates that failure and controversy are a part of life, but instead of running away from them, it is important to accept them.