Taking a subtle dig at the dialogue — Ab raja ka beta raja nahin banega, ab raja wahi banega, jo haqdaar hoga — from the film Super 30 (2019), actor Isha Koppikar says such things sound good only in films and the real scenario is completely different.

Weighing in on the current debates around nepotism and insider vs outsider in Bollywood, the actor asserts in the end, only hard work counts. “Whether you call it nepotism or favouritism, I agree it’s a loss for outsiders like us. But many such star kids came and couldn’t do much, probably they lacked the skill even after getting opportunities. However, for outsiders like us, there’s an exam at every crossroad. And there’s no alternate to hard work. Madhuri (Dixit Nene), Deepika (Padukone), Priyanka (Chopra Jonas), Anushka (Sharma)... they all came from outside and carved their niche,” says Koppikar.

Ask her about the hurdles outsiders face when it comes to camps in Bollywood, the 44-year-old doesn’t deny that it happens, but is quick to add that cribbing is futile. “Yes, there are camps, but what can I say about it? Maybe these people want to work with those they like, their friends and people who’d listen to them. I also have grievances. I can be bitter, but I don’t want to,” she says, elaborating on the casting couch in the industry.

“Of course that happens, too. But, again it depends on what you want. Aapko casting couch ke sahare kaam karna hai, toh karo, bahut heroines ne kiya aur oonche mukaam par pahunchi hain. But if you don’t want, then don’t do it. You always have a choice. I prefer a clear conscience and a good night’s sleep,” she adds.