Actress Nausheen Ali Sardar, who made her acting debut with Kkusum, addresses the issue of opportunities and challenges that come with being an actor today.Over the years, Nausheen has expanded her repertoire with shows such as The Adventures of Hatim, Gangaa, Aladdin – Naam Toh Suna Hoga, Barsatein – Mausam Pyaar Ka and Vasudha, among others.Reflecting on the profession, the actress says acting continues to be both aspirational and subject to outdated perceptions.“Acting today is one of the most sought-after professions. Everybody wants to be famous — an influencer or an actor with a large number of followers, likes and views. That is one side of the industry,” she says, adding, “However, there are still certain perceptions about actors in society. For instance, if an actor wants to buy a flat or rent a home, they may sometimes face hesitation because of assumptions about their lifestyle.”Nausheen also says these perceptions can influence personal relationships.“Actors are often welcomed as friends, but when it comes to marriage, some families may still have reservations about accepting an actor as a daughter-in-law or son-in-law. That is another aspect of the profession that needs to change,” she says.The actress further highlights the financial pressures faced by actors, particularly when it comes to taxation and work-related expenses.“An actor spends a considerable amount on makeup, hair, clothes and events, but there is limited scope for tax deductions on many of these expenses. At the same time, their overall income is taxed, which can create financial pressure,” she adds.Drawing a comparison with inflation over the years, Nausheen says actors’ earnings have not always kept pace with the rising cost of living.“What actors were earning 25 years ago is, in some cases, similar to what they earn even today, and that says a lot about the industry. The incomes of several workers have risen with inflation, but actors have not always seen a similar increase. That is the point I am trying to make,” she says.