Actress and model Chum Darang, who hails from Pasighat in Arunachal Pradesh, has spoken out about the discrimination she has experienced in the entertainment world. In a candid interview with News18 Showsha, Chum shared, “With a face like this, I think discrimination has walked along. It is true that we do look a bit different, and people are not aware of the region I come from.”
A Call for Greater Representation
Chum, a strong advocate for inclusivity and representation, acknowledged that while the industry has started to change, the progress is not yet widespread. “Inclusivity should be there on a larger scale. Cinema and television have a huge reach. If inclusivity is done right, it will spread awareness and break stereotypes,” she emphasized.
Limited Opportunities and Stereotyping
Darang also highlighted the lack of meaningful opportunities for actors from the Northeast. “We need risk takers to change this narrative. I am getting a lot of offers, but most are not very good. From the limited choices, I have to pick the best, which is often discouraging,” she revealed.
She firmly stated her refusal to participate in roles that stereotype Northeast communities. “I don’t want to take up stereotypical roles. If I settle for something that misrepresents us, it only encourages more such portrayals. I hope others are choosy too,” Chum said.
Spreading Positivity Through ‘Apni Roshni Baahar La’
Chum recently joined hands with Glow & Lovely’s campaign, Apni Roshni Baahar La, a nationwide movement promoting self-confidence and authenticity. “It’s a beautiful campaign about bringing your inner light out. Being a part of this makes me happy. It’s a powerful and necessary message,” she concluded.
