Shreya Mukherjee (HINDUSTAN TIMES; September 4, 2020)

In an art form like cinema, creating a good piece of work requires mutual respect and teamwork, feels Neliima Azeem. Referring to talks around nepotism and the negativity “being spewed on social media, in debates”, the veteran actor and Kathak exponent says these discussions are getting toxic. “If you have problems with people you have a professional relationship with, sort it out mutually. In constantly blaming others, make sure you don’t turn into a sociopath,” she says, stressing that policing on social media is a must. “These nameless trolls disrespecting artistes is deplorable,” she adds.

Objecting to the use of the term outsider, Azeem, 60, says, “Anyone who joins the industry and achieves a position or is working towards it is a part of the fraternity… I’m not disputing that there may be camps and lobbies in Bollywood, but isn’t it everywhere?” In pulling people down with their agenda-driven conversation, a certain section of the society is harming the larger cause of cinema, feels the actor. “Creative individuals who are occupied with their work are getting harassed. Judge people by their work. When you talk about boycotting certain actors and films, you’re hurting the work of so many others who have put this film together... I urge everyone to be kinder and supportive” she adds.