Bollywood actress Huma Qureshi recently shared a fascinating behind-the-scenes story about her explosive entry into the film industry with Anurag Kashyap's cult classic, Gangs of Wasseypur. During an appearance at the Expresso event, the actress revealed how a sassy remark made during an advertisement shoot ultimately led to her being cast in the career-defining role.
The Fateful First Encounter
Huma Qureshi described how her journey to Bollywood stardom began unexpectedly when a casting director recommended her for a commercial shoot. It was during this routine advertisement assignment that she first crossed paths with the renowned filmmaker Anurag Kashyap. "Gangs of Wasseypur changed my life," Huma reflected, acknowledging the film's transformative impact on her career.
The Delhi-born actress arrived at the shoot wearing significant makeup, appropriate for advertisement standards but apparently not to Kashyap's liking. The director directly questioned her about her appearance, to which the confident young actress delivered a now-legendary retort: "Mera dusva ad hai, aapka pehla hai?" (It's my tenth advertisement, might be your first?).
From Attitude to Opportunity
Rather than being offended by her sharp response, Anurag Kashyap saw something special in Huma's fearless attitude. "I think that's when he decided I am a fit for the film," she shared with laughter during the Expresso session on November 21, 2025. This spontaneous exchange demonstrated the very quality that would make her perfect for the strong-willed characters in his gritty crime saga.
The iconic film, which also starred powerhouse performers like Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Manoj Bajpayee, Richa Chadha, and Pankaj Tripathi, became a landmark in Indian cinema. Huma's performance was particularly praised, marking one of the most memorable deboots in recent Bollywood history.
The Surprising Salary Revelation
In another startling revelation, Huma Qureshi disclosed the modest compensation she received for her breakthrough role. "I got paid Rs 65,000 for Gangs Of Wasseypur," she stated, emphasizing that the experience was priceless regardless of the financial reward. "I would love to have that experience all over again, no matter how much the money."
This candid admission highlights the often-unseen financial realities behind landmark films and an artist's dedication to their craft beyond monetary considerations.
Meanwhile, Huma Qureshi continues to build an impressive body of work, currently appearing in the third season of Netflix's Delhi Crime and the political drama Maharani Season 4 on SonyLIV. Her journey from that fateful advertisement shoot to becoming one of Bollywood's most respected actors remains an inspiring tale of talent meeting opportunity in the most unexpected way.
