Jugal Hansraj Says Rejection And Career Lows Can Be Dangerous Without Support: 'It Can Affect You'

Actor and filmmaker Jugal Hansraj recently looked back on the winding road of his career during a candid conversation with Pinkvilla. From his unforgettable debut as a child artist in Shekhar Kapur’s Masoom to navigating uncertainty and rejection as an adult actor, Hansraj spoke with striking honesty about the highs, the heartbreaks, and the quiet resilience that kept him going.

From Masoom To Adult Roles: A Difficult Transition

Jugal Hansraj made a smooth entry into cinema as a child, but adulthood proved far less forgiving. Reflecting on his debut as a leading man in the 1994 film Aa Gale Lag Jaa, the actor revealed that work began drying up soon after.

“This has been constant in my career as there would be a commitment, but later the film would get

shelved. It happened with big producers of that time,” he shared.

The disappointment wasn’t limited to acting assignments alone. Hansraj revealed that even projects he was set to direct met similar fates.

Films Shelved, Dreams Deferred

Recalling that phase, Hansraj admitted the emotional toll it took on him in his younger years.

“When I was young, I was heartbroken due to it. But I couldn’t get angry as nobody was doing it on purpose. The circumstances were beyond control. Then what can you do? You just move on,” he said.

Rather than harbour resentment, the actor chose acceptance—a mindset that, in hindsight, helped him survive an unpredictable industry.

Surviving The Low Phase: Family And Perspective

When asked how he managed to stay afloat during prolonged periods of professional uncertainty, Hansraj credited his inner circle for keeping him grounded.

“I had a very strong support system. My family consisted of my parents, my older brother. Now only my big brother is there, but he is still a constant source of support!” he said.

He also spoke about the importance of friends who continued to believe in him when the industry didn’t.

“I also had some friends who would always encourage me. So if you have a good support system and little bit level head, otherwise it can affect you.”

Success And Failure: Two Extremes To Be Handled Carefully

Drawing from experience, Hansraj offered a thoughtful reflection on fame and failure—both of which, he believes, can be equally destabilising.

“Too much success can affect you and too much this can also affect you. So I think it’s best to take both with a pinch of salt as part of life,” he said.

Today, Jugal Hansraj’s journey stands as a reminder that careers in cinema are rarely linear—and that survival often depends less on constant success and more on perspective, patience, and the people who stand by you when the spotlight fades.