Divya Dutta slams ‘supporting actor’ label: 'I’m not here to support anyone, I support myself'

Divya Dutta has carved a unique space in Indian cinema with her ability to portray layered characters across genres. From emotionally intense performances to strong antagonistic roles, the actor has consistently chosen parts that challenge conventional definitions of “lead” and “supporting” characters.With her upcoming film ‘Chiraiya’ gearing up for release, the actor recently opened up about her journey in the industry, the labels attached to actors, and why she refuses to let such tags determine the importance of her work. Known for memorable performances in films like ‘Veer-Zaara’, ‘Delhi-6’, ‘Badlapur’, and ‘Irada’, Dutta believes an actor’s contribution should not be defined by rigid industry categories.

Divya Dutta on being labelled a 'supporting' actor

Speaking about the long-standing practice of categorising performers, Divya Dutta shared with Variety that she finds the idea of boxing actors into fixed roles limiting. According to her, the industry’s perspective on character-driven roles has changed over time, but the shift has been slower when it comes to women.Dutta explained that she sees herself simply as an actor and prefers to be recognised as one. She added that in earlier years, such categorisation felt unusual, but now it has become a standard practice.

The actor further noted that while she enjoys doing character-driven roles and does not mind playing a romantic part opposite a hero, she has always wanted to portray characters that go beyond being portrayed as naïve or superficial.The actor also addressed the assumption that roles not centred on romance or the main hero are automatically labelled as “supporting” characters. Divya Dutta remarked that just because she was not romancing the hero did not automatically mean she was supporting someone else.

She famously stated, “I'm not here to support anyone. I support myself.”She added that she is open to playing a wide variety of roles, whether it is an antagonist, a comic character, or even the main lead. At the same time, she emphasised that she is equally happy taking on smaller roles if they are significant to the narrative. Reflecting on her career, she pointed out that many of her characters have often turned out to be among the most pivotal parts of the films they appear in.

Divya Dutta on breaking stereotypes in her career

Looking back at her early days in the industry, Divya Dutta recalled that not having a fixed image initially made things challenging. However, she eventually realised that the lack of a defined tag actually worked in her favour.Dutta revealed that there was a time when people in the industry were unsure where she fit, but she enjoyed that uncertainty because it allowed her the freedom to experiment. Dutta explained that she never wanted to be restricted to a particular type of role and instead wished to explore every aspect of acting.

Divya Dutta on the work front

Divya Dutta has a packed slate of projects lined up between 2025 and 2026. The actor is set to headline the social drama series ‘Chiraiya’, which explores the subject of marital consent. She will also be seen portraying Soyrabai in the historical drama ‘Chhaava’. Following her appearance in ‘Sharmajee Ki Beti’, Dutta continues to remain busy with several upcoming ventures. Her future projects include ‘Tum Rahe Na Tum’, co-starring Jimmy Shergill, a new project backed by filmmaker Neeraj Pandey, as well as the popular musical drama series ‘Bandish Bandits’.