‘It’s worse when you don’t…’: Ameesha Patel on navigating Bollywood as an outsider; psychologist explains how exclusion impacts opportunities even in other industries

She also reflected on how she wasn’t the first choice for her debut film Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai: “After he had Kareena leave the film because of their differences and him being upset with her behaviour that I got the opportunity. Had I come from the film industry, maybe I would’ve been the first choice.”

Speaking about the difficulty of navigating the industry alone, Ameesha added, “It’s worse when you don’t end up having a boyfriend or a husband from the industry. When you don’t share your other ‘half’ as a power couple, it’s very hard. You don’t have people backing you. There’s no reason to back you; you are an outsider.”

What impact can ‘camps’ or cliques have on someone’s career growth if they choose not to participate?

Gurleen Baruah, organisational psychologist at That Culture Thing, tells indianexpress.com, “Camps and cliques exist everywhere, not just in the film industry. In psychology, this often comes from similarity bias, where we naturally feel safer with those who look, think, or behave like us. Sometimes it’s also about perceived fear: fear of losing influence, contacts, or belonging. In any industry, when a dominant camp forms, those outside of it may feel excluded or overlooked.” 

She adds that this can create subtle “us vs them” divides, affecting access to opportunities. The danger isn’t always deliberate discrimination; it’s how group belonging shapes decisions, sometimes unconsciously.

Strategies to build strong industry relationships

Not drinking or smoking doesn’t mean you can’t build strong relationships. Many people mistake such habits as entry passes into bonding, but in reality, what sustains professional relationships is trust, reliability, and authenticity. 

“Alternatives include showing up consistently, being curious about others’ work, collaborating generously, and keeping communication warm and respectful. It’s less about ‘avoiding what you don’t do’ and more about ‘showing who you are.’ People remember genuine presence more than how many parties you attended,” notes Baruah. 

How does being an ‘outsider’ affect opportunities, and what are some effective ways to thrive without relying on insider backing?

Being an outsider can feel like starting the race a few steps behind, Baruah states, especially in industries where networks or legacy matter. Nepotism or insider culture can open first doors, but in the long run, careers are sustained by talent, professionalism, and resilience. 

“Outsiders often succeed by sharpening their craft, staying consistent, and creating their own ecosystems of support: through mentors, collaborations, or loyal audiences. It may take longer, but it also builds a stronger sense of ownership and alignment with one’s values. The key is to keep improving, stay visible, and let the work speak louder than the camps,” concludes the expert. 

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