Highlights:
- Sonam Bajwa says she has no regrets about debuting in Bollywood with Housefull 5.
- The actor acknowledges criticism about the film’s portrayal of women but respects differing opinions.
- She says she was fully aware her role would be limited in an ensemble comedy.
- Sonam draws parallels with Alia Bhatt’s early career choices.
- She is confident that more performance-driven Hindi film roles will follow.
Punjabi film star Sonam Bajwa recently addressed the criticism surrounding her Bollywood debut in Housefull 5, making it clear that she stands firmly by her decision. While the film enjoyed strong box-office success, it also faced backlash for its portrayal of women, with critics arguing that female characters were reduced to stereotypes and largely existed for glamour rather than meaningful storytelling.
In an interview with News18 Showsha, Sonam said she respects the audience’s right to critique films but does not believe her debut choice deserves regret. She explained that cinema has always included films where women play lighter, more glamorous roles, especially in large ensemble comedies. “People are entitled to their opinions,” she said, adding that such portrayals are not new to mainstream commercial cinema.
Sonam emphasized that she entered Housefull 5 with realistic expectations. As a franchise film led by established male stars such as Akshay Kumar, Abhishek Bachchan, and Riteish Deshmukh, she knew the narrative focus would not revolve around her character. For her, the opportunity to work with seasoned actors and gain visibility in Hindi cinema made the compromise worthwhile. She described the project as a strategic first step rather than a defining statement of her abilities.
Addressing the larger issue of women’s roles in Bollywood, Sonam admitted that the industry can be particularly demanding for female actors. She noted that women often have to wait longer to receive roles that truly showcase their range, sometimes accepting smaller but visible parts early in their careers. According to her, longevity in the industry requires patience, smart choices, and resilience.
To support her point, Sonam referenced Alia Bhatt’s career trajectory. She pointed out that despite Alia’s undeniable talent, her debut in Student of the Year featured her in a conventional, glamorous role. Over time, Alia went on to prove her depth through challenging and critically acclaimed performances. Sonam believes this progression highlights how early career choices do not define an actor’s long-term potential.
Sonam also defended comedy as a genre, calling it far more demanding than it appears. She said she treated her scenes in Housefull 5 as a chance to demonstrate comic timing, screen presence, and discipline, even if the role seemed small on paper.
Fresh off winning a National Award for her Punjabi film Godday Godday Chaa, Sonam remains optimistic about her future in Bollywood. She revealed that her upcoming Hindi project, Ek Deewani Ki Deewaniyat, will present her in a more intense and performance-driven role. Confident and focused, Sonam believes her Bollywood journey has only just begun, with stronger and more substantial roles still ahead.
