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Jaideep Ahlawat Opens Up on Stereotyping and Career Challenges

Source: Jaideep Ahlawat says he was stereotyped after Commando, got offered weird negative roles: ‘Ki basically aap gaadhe ho’ | Bollywood (2025-11-23)

In a candid interview, acclaimed actor Jaideep Ahlawat reflects on how his role in the 2013 film *Commando* as antagonist AK-74 shaped his career, revealing the challenges of being stereotyped and offered unconventional negative roles. Despite his recent praise for his performance in *The Family Man* Season 3, Ahlawat shares that after *Commando*, he faced typecasting, often being cast in roles that reinforced negative stereotypes, which limited his opportunities and affected his artistic growth. He describes how some filmmakers and casting directors perceived him as "basically a gaadhe" (a fool), leading to a series of "weird" and often unflattering roles that did not showcase his true talent. Ahlawat's journey highlights the broader issue of stereotyping in Bollywood, where actors often struggle to break free from initial roles that pigeonhole them into specific character types. His experience underscores the importance of diverse casting and the need for industry change to recognize actors' full range of abilities. Despite these hurdles, Ahlawat's perseverance and dedication have earned him critical acclaim, especially for his nuanced portrayal of complex characters in recent projects. Recent facts that add context include the evolving landscape of Indian cinema, where more actors are gaining recognition for versatile roles, and the increasing influence of streaming platforms like Amazon Prime and Netflix, which have provided opportunities for actors like Ahlawat to showcase their range beyond traditional Bollywood stereotypes. Additionally, industry insiders note a shift towards more inclusive casting practices, driven by audience demand for authentic and diverse storytelling. The actor's experience also reflects a broader trend of actors advocating for better recognition and opportunities, emphasizing the importance of talent over typecasting. As Bollywood continues to evolve, Ahlawat's story serves as both a cautionary tale and an inspiration, illustrating the importance of resilience and the ongoing need for industry reform to foster a more inclusive environment where actors can thrive based on their skills and versatility. His journey from stereotyped roles to celebrated performances exemplifies the transformative power of perseverance and the changing dynamics of Indian entertainment in 2025.

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