Elli AvrRam Says “Bollywood Sets Don’t Care If You Faint,” Compares Work Culture

Actor Elli AvrRam has offered a candid look into the working culture of the Indian film industry, stating that “Bollywood sets don’t care if you faint” while praising the comparatively calmer environment of South film industries.

In a recent interview with Bollywood Bubble, the actor—who has worked across Hindi and South cinema—said she has generally found South film sets to be more “peaceful” and considerate toward actors.

“South Sets Are More Peaceful”

Elaborating on the differences, Elli said, “I have found it more peaceful on set in the South. In Bollywood, it’s more…”—gesturing hurriedly to describe the pace.

She noted that South film crews tend to maintain a calmer environment, often using walkie-talkies instead of shouting instructions. According to her, there is also greater attention to basic well-being, including whether actors have eaten or are comfortable on set.

“Bollywood Sets Don’t Care If You Faint”

Contrasting this, Elli described some of her experiences in Hindi cinema as less accommodating.

“My experience in Bollywood has been more like, even if you are eating, but you are told your shot is ready. We don’t care if you have eaten, if you faint, but the shot is ready,”

She said, while also acknowledging that such experiences can vary depending on the team involved.

She added that she recently worked on a project where the crew prioritised hospitality, suggesting that work culture can differ significantly from one production to another.

On Typecasting and Breaking Stereotypes

Elli also addressed the issue of typecasting in Bollywood, noting that actors are often slotted into specific roles.

Recalling her role in Malang, directed by Mohit Suri, she said filmmakers were surprised to see her take on a more intense character.

“I was told that filmmakers were shocked that Elli is a serious actor,”

She said, adding that such perceptions often limit opportunities until actors prove otherwise.

Scenes Cut and “Like a Prop” Experience

The actor also spoke about the unpredictability of screen time in films, revealing that even substantial roles can be reduced during editing.

She recalled being signed as a second female lead in a “very big film,” only to find most of her scenes—including her introduction—cut from the final version.

“Mera pura introduction hata diya… I am like a prop in that film,”

She said, describing the experience as one of the most insulting moments of her career. She also claimed that in some cases, decisions about edits were influenced by people close to producers, rather than the director.

On Industry Dynamics and Power Structures

Sharing her perspective on industry hierarchy, Elli said that bigger stars often have greater influence on creative decisions.

“Whoever is the biggest star… is the one who has the final say,” she noted, adding that actors often have to accept these realities when signing a project.

At the same time, she acknowledged positive changes, pointing out that more actresses today are asserting themselves and contributing to the rise of women-led films.

Working With Bollywood’s Biggest Names

Elli also reflected on her experiences working with leading actors, including Aamir Khan, Amitabh Bachchan, and Shah Rukh Khan.

She described Aamir Khan as “extremely down to earth” and someone who values others’ opinions, while calling Amitabh Bachchan “extremely punctual” and dedicated.

Recalling her first meeting with Shah Rukh Khan, Elli said it was a memorable moment, especially as she had long admired him since watching Devdas during her early years in Sweden.

“The day I work with him, it would mean a big deal,” she shared.