In the world of cinema, the term typecasting often emerges as a cautionary tale: a creative trap that can limit an actor’s potential and, in many cases, end promising careers. This issue is particularly prevalent in Hindi cinema, where actors can find themselves permanently slotted into one kind of role, regardless of their range or talent. One such story is that of actress Kanchan, who once dreamt of making it big in Bollywood — but fate, and the industry’s narrow lens, had other plans.From a young age, Kanchan was passionate about acting. With dreams of entering the film industry, she began modelling during her college years, balancing it alongside her studies. It was during this time that she caught the eye of veteran filmmaker Saawan Kumar Tak. He was casting for Sanam Bewafa, a film starring Salman Khan, and was looking for someone to play the role of the heroine’s best friend. After seeing her photographs, he called her in for an audition. Kanchan cleared it with ease and was soon cast in what would become one of the biggest hits of the year. Kanchan, Chandni, and Vyjayendra Ghatge in Sanam Bewafa. (Photo: Express Archives)While Sanam Bewafa’s lead actors received widespread acclaim, Kanchan managed to leave a lasting impression as well. Her performance caught the attention of several producers, and she quickly began receiving film offers. Over the next few years, she starred in films like Do Hanso Ka Joda, Aulad Ke Dushman, Kasam Teri Kasam, and Pandav, where she appeared alongside a then-rising Akshay Kumar.Her most memorable performance came in David Dhawan’s 1995 blockbuster Coolie No. 1, starring Govinda and Karisma Kapoor. Kanchan played Karisma’s younger sister and won hearts with her portrayal. The film was a massive commercial success, and even today, audiences fondly remember the song “Husn Hai Suhana”, where Kanchan shared the screen with the lead cast. But success came with its own set of challenges.Also Read | Shoojit Sircar on the AI-altered ending of Raanjhanaa and collaborating with Shah Rukh Khan: ‘We really need people who can protect a filmmaker’s vision’Despite her popularity, Kanchan soon found herself at a professional crossroads. Industry trends were shifting, and filmmakers began favouring bold, glamorous roles over simple, girl-next-door characters. As a result, the kinds of offers she once received began to dry up. Seeking new opportunities, she turned to the South Indian film industry and debuted in the Malayalam film Gandharvam opposite superstar Mohanlal. The film was a hit, and Kanchan continued with projects like Prema Pusthakam and Lucky Chance, which gave her a brief resurgence. Mohnish Bahl and Kanchan. (Photo: Express Archives)Still, the issue of typecasting followed her. After Sanam Bewafa, she was consistently offered secondary roles, often the best friend of the heroine or minor characters like the villain’s daughter. She featured in films such as Ram Aur Shyam, Itihaas, and Mohabbat Aur Jung, but none provided the breakthrough or recognition she needed to cement her place in the industry. Eventually, disillusioned and side-lined, Kanchan chose to step away from the film world altogether. Today, not much is known about her whereabouts. However, some reports suggest that she now works as a drama teacher at a school in Mumbai, still connected to the world of performance, but far from the spotlight she once stood in.Click here to follow Screen Digital on YouTube and stay updated with the latest from the world of cinema.© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd