Siddhant Chaturvedi on Why Hindi Cinema Needs Heartland Voices: “Writers Still Don’t Get Access”

In a recent podcast, actor Siddhant Chaturvedi spoke candidly about a subject rarely discussed so openly in Bollywood - the lack of access for writers from smaller towns and the urgent need for authentic Indian stories. Highlighting how talent often remains unseen due to geographical and structural barriers, the Gully Boy star emphasized that the industry needs to look beyond its traditional hubs to tell stories that resonate with the heart of India.

" The writers are not getting access - as much access as we want," Siddhant said, pointing out that storytelling talent from tier-2 and tier-3 cities often goes unnoticed. "We need stories from tier-2, tier-3 towns, and not only massy narratives - we need films like Laapataa Ladies. But those writers aren't getting access because the industry is concentrated in Bombay... in Juhu, Bandra, or at most Andheri," he noted, reflecting a concern that has long simmered across creative circles.

Born in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh, Siddhant Chaturvedi made his Bollywood debut with Gully Boy and, over the years, has impressed audiences with a versatile body of work including Gehraiyaan, Kho Gaye Hum Kahan, and Dhadak 2. Being an outsider himself, he understands the challenges of entering the industry from outside the traditional circle, navigating Mumbai with ambition and minimal backing. His choice of roles reflects a commitment to authenticity and stories with depth, not just formulaic glamour.

During the conversation, Siddhant also highlighted the growing disconnect between mainstream Hindi cinema and its audiences, pointing to language and cultural shifts that leave many viewers feeling estranged. "If a writer from Bhopal, Gwalior, Ballia, or Banaras comes here, I don't think he'll get access - maybe because he doesn't know English," Siddhant explained, underscoring how structural barriers still determine whose stories get told. He added that today's young audiences, especially Gen Z, are perceptive enough to spot when a story comes from genuine passion and truth.

On the workfront, Siddhant Chaturvedi is set to appear in Bhansali Productions' Do Deewane Seher Mein and the V. Shantaram Biopic, continuing to choose projects that challenge conventions and showcase stories with depth.