Self respect, dignity more important than success: Ishita Dutta

Ishita Dutta, who will be seen in Firangi, has never faced the casting couch so far in Bollywood, but she says she will never compromise on self respect and dignity to chase success. 

Asked about her journey, Ishita says, "I think I am very fortunate to have my sister, who is always there to guide me, and my food and lodging has been taken care of. Since my basic needs of life are secure, when it comes to work, I never appeared like a desperate struggler."

"It is unfortunate that in every industry, there are people who take advantage of needy people, but I would like to tell all the budding actors not to be vulnerable and always have a back-up plan because rejection in auditions and films is not the end of the world. Self respect and dignity are more important for a woman than success," she adds.

She also says it is wrong to blame a victim in a case of molestation and sexual harassment as often women are told they attract a certain behaviour. "My lifestyle is not an opportunity for a sick-minded man to harass me. Why does society dictate that a girl has to live her life within certain norms? I think that perspective should be changed."

As most of the budding actors come to Mumbai at a very young age, even without finishing their education, Ishita believes that is also one of the factors that leads to them getting exploited.

In Firangi, releasing on Friday, Ishita plays a village girl, and shares screen space with Kapil Sharma.