Akanksha Chamola on Deserving More Lead Roles

Television actress Akanksha Chamola has spoken candidly about some of the biggest challenges in the entertainment industry during her appearance on Honestly, Why Not With MNL Season 2. Hosted by Mohammed Nagaman Lateef, the talk show is known for its bold and unfiltered celebrity conversations.

During the interview, Akanksha opened up about her career struggles, marriage to actor Gaurav Khanna, the growing pressure of social media, and the demanding reality of working in television. As a result, viewers got to see a side of the actress that rarely comes to the forefront.

She Wants More Lead Roles

One of the biggest highlights of the episode came when Akanksha was asked whether she believed she deserved more lead roles.

Without any hesitation, she replied, “I deserve a lot of lead roles. Gaurav has already done a lot of lead roles. I’m not comparing myself with him, but yes, I want to have many more opportunities as a lead.”

Moreover, she clarified that her statement was not about comparing herself to her husband. Instead, she wants to be recognised for her own talent and hard work.

Social Media Is Changing the Industry

The conversation then shifted to how the television industry has evolved.

According to Akanksha, social media popularity now plays a major role in casting decisions. She believes followers often receive more importance than acting skills.

“It feels like followers are valued over talent today. Being in the right circles has become very important,” she said.

Consequently, she highlighted how networking and online visibility have become almost as important as talent in today’s entertainment business.

Marriage Affected Her Career

Akanksha also reflected on how marriage impacted her professional journey.

She revealed that acting offers became fewer after she got married.

“I had more offers before marriage. After marriage, they definitely reduced. Looking back, I think I was a little ignorant,” she shared with a smile.

Although she laughed while saying it, her comments shed light on the challenges many married actresses continue to face in the industry.

Keeping Peace on Set Matters

The actress also admitted that maintaining harmony on set sometimes requires diplomacy.

When asked if she had ever pretended to like a co-star, she answered honestly.

“Yes, I have pretended to like a co-actor just to keep the peace on set. Sometimes you do what is needed for a healthy working environment.”

Therefore, she acknowledged that professionalism often means putting personal differences aside for the sake of the team.

Long Working Hours Take a Toll

Akanksha also spoke about the exhausting schedules television actors often endure.

She revealed that she has spent months working long and toxic hours.

“I’ve been working long, toxic hours for months. Initially, you hope for a great script and a meaningful role, but sometimes reality is different and you also have to think about paying your bills.”

As a result, she explained that actors sometimes accept projects not only for creative satisfaction but also for financial stability.

An Honest and Refreshing Conversation

Host Mohammed Nagaman Lateef kept the conversation engaging with his straightforward questions. Because of the relaxed atmosphere, Akanksha felt comfortable discussing topics that many celebrities usually avoid.

From industry politics to marriage and career struggles, she answered every question with honesty. At the same time, the playful banter between the host and actress kept the interview entertaining.

Fans Applaud Her Honesty

Following the episode, many viewers appreciated Akanksha’s openness.

Rather than presenting only the glamorous side of television, she shared the realities behind the camera. Consequently, her candid revelations resonated with audiences and made the episode one of the most memorable conversations of Honestly, Why Not With MNL Season 2.