In the world of Bollywood, the path to stardom is often fraught with challenges and rejections, even for talented actors like Richa Chadha. In a recent interview, Richa opened up about a pivotal moment early in her career when she auditioned for the role of Chanda in the acclaimed film 'Dev D,' directed by Anurag Kashyap. Although she didn't secure the role, her story is a testament to her determination and resilience in the face of adversity.

Richa shared her audition experience during a conversation with Cyrus Broacha on his podcast, Cyrus Says. She revealed that filmmaker Vasan Bala, who was an Assistant Director on 'Dev D,' conducted her audition. While the film's team appreciated her performance, they had reservations about casting her as Chanda.

The primary reason for her rejection, as conveyed to her, was her theatrical background, which had influenced her acting style. Richa explained, "The feedback that I got from the team, and not from Bala, because he basically pushed for me, was that you are a brilliant actor, but because I had come from theatre, I didn’t cater to the camera. If the shot was here, I was looking there."

During the audition process, Richa also recalled an off-hand remark from someone on the team who suggested that she didn't know how to pose for the camera and even suggested she consider participating in a pageant. However, Richa maintained her belief that she had performed well during the audition.

Interestingly, while her performance was commendable, the pivotal factor behind her rejection was her physical resemblance to Mahie Gill, who ultimately portrayed the character of Paro in 'Dev D.' The filmmakers were looking for a visually distinct actress for the role of Chanda, and this may have contributed to the decision.

Richa Chadha's experience serves as a reminder that success in the entertainment industry is often a complex interplay of talent, timing, and circumstances. Despite facing rejection, Richa has gone on to establish herself as a prominent and versatile actor in Bollywood, known for her compelling performances in films such as 'Fukrey,' 'Masaan,' and 'Gangs of Wasseypur.'

Her journey underscores the importance of resilience and self-belief in the face of setbacks, and it serves as an inspiration for aspiring actors and artists who may encounter obstacles on their path to achieving their dreams in the world of cinema. Richa Chadha's story is a testament to the idea that talent and determination can eventually lead to success, even if the road is marked by initial setbacks and rejections.