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The nepotism debate: Here’s what Bollywood celebs have to say about it

TNN | Last updated on - Jun 13, 2019, 10:25 IST
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1/38

Tara Sutaria thinks nepotism is ‘silly’ and here’s why!

Tara Sutaria recently joined the bandwagon of newcomers in Bollywood with her debut film, ‘Student Of The Year 2’ along with co-debutant Ananya Panday and co-star Tiger Shroff. The budding actress, who does not come from a filmy background, recently opened up about nepotism.

Speaking about if nepotism exists, she reportedly said that it has not been any disadvantage for her as no one has ever treated her differently till now. She added that a lot of people have constantly asked her this question because there is so much debate on Dharma, and nepotism, silly things people constantly talk about. According to her, this has never been with her and it has been a breeze.

The actress further reportedly said that she has three films coming out back-to-back and if it was anything that people describe it to be, then she would not be doing two to three films so soon.

Meanwhile, on the work front, she will next be seen in Milap Zaveri’s next, ‘Marjaavaan’ which also stars Sidharth Malhotra and Riteish Deshmukh in lead roles.

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'Student of the Year 2' actor Aditya Seal talks about nepotism in Bollywood

Actor Aditya Seal, who has featured in films like 'Namaste England', 'Purani Jeans' and 'Tum Bin II' is all set to weave his magic once again in Punit Malhotra's upcoming film 'Student of the Year 2'.

The film is a sequel to the 2012 hit film 'Student of the Year' which featured Varun Dhawan, Alia Bhatt and Sidharth Malhotra in lead roles. 'Student of the Year 2' also stars Tiger Shroff, Tara Sutaria and Ananya Panday in pivotal roles and Aditya will be seen sharing screen space with the trio.

Talking about nepotism in Bollywood in an interview with ZoomTV.com, Aditya said that he doesn't understand the debate over nepotism as if there's talent in a person from the industry itself then that person would eventually make it to the top like Alia, Varun and others, who have proved their abilities.

Furthermore talking about Karan Johar he said that he has a good eye for talent and therefore he launches them in Bollywood so that's why Aditya doesn't feel there's anything wrong in it.

3/38

Here's what Sonam Kapoor has to say about nepotism

We all know that ''nepotism'' is one o the burning topic in Hindi film industry. This word became a buzzword ever since Kangana Ranaut's appearance on Karan Johar's chat show. Several B-town celebs feel that it's unfair on the outsiders who are genuinely talented and more deserving. While there are some celebs who accept that nepotism exists in Bollywood while there are some who refuse the same. Recently, on a talk show Bollywood star Sonam Kapoor opened up about and broke down the meaning of Nepotism.

The actress reportedly said that everyone thinks that it's a relative of a person She stated that nepotism actually means to get a job through any connection. She feels that people have misunderstood it or are using the word for their own benefit, to put other people down. She further added that if her father didn't come from an illustrious family. He has worked in this industry for 40 years and he has worked really hard only for his children and if she doesn't take advantage of his hard work, which he did for them then she thinks that will be a little disrespectful towards his work because every man or a woman, a mother or a father works for their children.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Sonam was last seen in ' Ek Ladki Ko Dekha Toh Aisa Laga' along with Anil Kapoor and Rajkummar Rao. She will be seen next in 'The Zoya Factor' alongside Dulquer Salmaan.

4/38

Did Karan Johar just take a dig at Kangana Ranaut on nepotism?

The subject of nepotism was not always this hot topic in Bollywood until actress Kangana Ranaut raised the issue two years ago and called filmmaker Karan Johar a ‘flag-bearer’ of nepotism. Since then, a lot has been said about the same by various other celebs in the industry.

Recently, when Karan was asked why he loves the term ‘nepotism’ so much, he reportedly said that it is he who loves the subject so much but somebody else. So he has left that person to do all the talking and he is doing his job.

Recently, Kangana, too, was asked if she would help her child if he/she would want to become an actor 20 years down the line. She reportedly said that if she does that then the possibility of him being a good director will be 50 per cent. She also added that if she really cares for him as a mother, she will let him find his own way, because he can make a good living out of anything, anywhere. But if she wants him to be an extraordinary person, she must throw him into the sea. He will either drown or make it.

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Ankita Lokhande opens up about nepotism in the industry

"Nepotism" is a burning topic in Bollywood industry and has been debated at almost every event. Many celebs from the Industry feel that it's unfair on the outsiders who are genuinely talented and more deserving. But nepotism exists in all the field and it is not just restricted to Bollywood. Ankita Lokhande, who recently made her Bollywood debut with Kangana Ranaut's 'Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi' shared her thoughts on this burning issue.

When she was quizzed about nepotism, the actress reportedly answered saying that she is not in any competition or in any rush to reach somewhere and achieve something quickly. She is happy with her latest outing Manikarnika and looking forward to good scripts for her next projects. She is hoping to do more of good work, good scripts. There are many newcomers who don't have a Godfather and still, they are working so even she will definitely work with them. The actress reportedly stated that she really doesn't need any Godfather.

The actor plays the role of 'Jhalkari Bai' in 'Manikarnika: The Queen of Jhansi', who was one of Rani Laxmibai’s most trusted aides.

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​Sara Ali Khan says she is aware of the “unfairness” nepotism comes with

Unlike most other Bollywood celebs trying to dodge the nepotism bullet, Sara Ali Khan has taken the debate head-on and admitted on several occasion that it comes with its perks. The actress, who had once said that it would be “hypocritical” to run away from the discussion, said in a recent interview, that she is aware of the “unfairness” nepotism comes with but insisted that there is no pressure on her to live up to her parent’s legacy.

She added that she is aware she has access to more things in the industry than others, but insisted that she was never averse to pressure. She reportedly said that the only thing she wants to do is to make her mark in the industry and be remembered for her characters, and not just as Saif Ali Khan’s daughter.

The starlet made her debut in ‘Kedarnath’, which fared well at the box office and went on to taste success with the record-breaking run ‘Simmba’, co-starring Ranveer Singh, has had at the ticket window thus far.

7/38

Here's what Meghna Gulzar has to say about Nepotism

Daughter of a renowned lyricist, Meghna Gulzar raised the bar for herself with some amazing movies like 'Talvar' and 'Raazi'. The filmmaker attended the ongoing 49th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. In a panel discussion held at the event, she spoke at length about her journey in the industry.

The panel discussion was held by 'Dhadak' director Shashank Khaitan, where Meghna opened up on the topic of "Nepotism". To which she filmmaker reportedly said that If there is a living example that nepotism doesn’t exist in our industry, it’s her. She waited for twelve hours outside a film studio to get to an access to an actor. She would not say who she is or what her last name was. She stated that people knew who she was but that doesn’t mean she got instant access.

She further added and said that her first film failed and it took her seven years to make her next film. It doesn't matter what her last film was. It was only after her films succeeded that it became easier to make her fourth film.

Meanwhile, on the work front, Meghna will be working with Deepika Padukone for her next project. The story of the film is based on the life of acid attack survivor.

8/38

Sara Ali Khan says running away from the nepotism debate would be hypocritical

While most of the Bollywood celebs try to dodge the nepotism bullet, Sara Ali Khan took the debate head-on and reportedly said that running away from this topic would be hypocritical.


According to the reports, in a recent media interaction when Sara Ali Khan was asked that since she is the daughter of Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh, does she enjoy special privileges, the actress didn’t beat around the bush and replied with the yes. The actress reportedly also added that this conversation around nepotism is even a topic of the discussion at the dinner table and she can’t run away from it. It would be hypocritical and wrong for her to say that it doesn't exist.


If the reports are to be believed, then Sara very openly accepted that she can neither deny it nor run away from the access or the privilege she has because of her parents. She said that being an insider gives you easy access to the main line like she can walk into Rohit Shetty’s office and ask him to consider her for ‘Simmba’. However, at the same time, she said that despite the easy access, if you are not good at what you do, survival would not be easy.


Sara Ali Khan is all set to make her big Bollywood debut with Abhishek Kapoor’s directorial ‘Kedarnath’. Sharing the screen space with Sushant Singh Rajput, the first movie of Sara Ali Khan is releasing this December on 7th. After that, the actress will be seen in Rohit Shetty’s ‘Simmba’, in which she has been paired opposite Ranveer Singh. The movie will hit the box office on December 28.

9/38

Raveena Tandon opens up about the Nepotism in the film industry

‘Nepotism’ is one of the never-ending debates in Bollywood. A lot of celebrities have opened up on this topic earlier too and now the 'Maatr' star is the recent one to open up on nepotism at a recently held event.

Addressing the issue, Raveena reportedly said that she agrees that it is difficult for outsiders to work in Bollywood. But it is not like there are no success stories. She named few stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Kangana Ranaut, Sonu Sood, Priyanka Chopra and Katrina Kaif who have made it on their own. She said that there are many who came from the outside and became successful.

Raveena, daughter of filmmaker Ravi Tandon, is an industry kid herself. She reportedly stated that she never asked her father to launch her. She made it on her own in the industry on her own talent and work. She admitted that she never sent out any portfolios to anyone. People saw her performance in college and offers came her way.

Meanwhile, Raveena is in the process of reading scripts and will sign a film soon.

10/38

Anushka Sharma opens up about nepotism in the Bollywood Industry

Ever since Karan Johar was called the flagbearer of nepotism on his famous talk show by actress Kangana Ranaut, nepotism has become the talking point in the country.

The latest actress to come out in open and talk about it is none other than Anushka Sharma, who has carved a niche for herself in Bollywood. She was quoted saying that everyone's talking about nepotism but she has nothing to do with it. She further added that the actors should be blamed for nepotism but the people who are responsible for it should and people think that nepotism exists but it's just a useless topic to talk about.

Meanwhile, on the professional front, Anushka will be seen in the role of a scientist in Aanand L Rai's 'Zero' which also stars Shah Rukh Khan and Katrina Kaif. The film is scheduled to release on December 21, 2018.

11/38

Kangana Ranaut might be glad to hear Shahid Kapoor’s recent statement on nepotism

The debate of nepotism never really died and it never will. While Kangana Ranaut is touted to be the one who raised this storm, there has been barely anybody in B-town who has come out in support of the actress. However, Shahid Kapoor’s recent statements on the same might make the actress happy.

Shahid opened up about the subject of nepotism in an interview recently. Agreeing to the fact that we live in one of the most nepotistic times we've ever been in, the actor reportedly stated that everybody who has anything to do with an actor or a producer or a director kinda tries to become an actor. And there is a lot less access to people who are not within the fraternity. He also added that social media hasn't really helped that because the people who tend to get noticed are the people who happen to be somebody of a celebrity. Therefore, you are in the limelight. So, it's a big contradiction.

On the work front, the actor is awaiting the release of his upcoming film ‘Batti Gul Meter Chalu’ that is slated to release on September 21.

12/38

Here's what filmmaker Sudhir Mishra has to say about nepotism in Bollywood

Nepotism has been a burning topic ever since it was discussed out in the open by Kangana Ranaut in ‘Koffee with Karan’ last year. The ‘Queen’ actress had termed KJo as the ‘flagbearer of nepotism’ in the show and it created a stir in the media. Ever since then several Bollywood stars have been giving their take on this prevalent topic.


Recently, filmmaker Sudhir Mishra spoke to a daily about this phenomenon and gave his opinion on nepotism. He agreed that it’s prevalent but feels that the journey of an actor is not defined by his or her first film, so one should concentrate on his or her individual effort. He said, that it’s okay that [star kids] are getting better launchpads, but that can’t stop outsiders from creating their base in the industry.


He cited examples of self-made stars like Rajkummar Rao, Ayushmann Khurrana, Nawazuddin Siddiqui, Pankaj Tripathi, Aditi Rao Hydari, Richa Chadha, Huma Qureshi or Deepika Padukone and praised the fact that despite not hailing from the industry they have all been doing so well.


Known to helm some amazing critically-acclaimed movies, Sudhir Mishra emphasised on how for him what matters the most is the story of the movie. He further added that whether or not a star kid whoever is willing to work and has the talent to live up to the character which is helmed must get the opportunity to bag a project. He also said that star kids like Alia Bhatt and Ranbir Kapoor should not be neglected just because they hail from a Bollywood family. Since they have the talent they should be getting good films as well.

13/38

Here's how Bobby Deol described his knowledge on the term "nepotism"

Salman Khan starrer ‘Race 3’ is already making waves, be it the dialogues or songs or just the trailer as a whole. Even the memes revolving around ‘Race 3’ is adding to its promotional agenda. Interestingly, the film’s star cast has Bobby Deol, and the fans will get to see him in a never seen before avatar. Bobby is looking fit and fabulous and the ‘Bajrangi Bhaijaan’ actor is leaving no stones unturned to help Bobby rewind his Bollywood career.

In a recent interview with a portal, Bobby Deol spoke about his struggles as well as the conjecture term “nepotism” too.

Speaking about the beginning of his journey, the actor reportedly said that when he started his career, it was more like a traditional way of working in cinema. He emphasised that when he became a part of the process, things were changing. He added that the work used to come to him rather than him going and asking for work. The ‘Poster Boys’ actor further revealed that in the beginning, he didn't understand the term nepotism.

He said that he got ‘Yamla Pagla Deewana Phir Se’, but he wanted to get out of the whole thing that he is working with his brother and dad. He added that people have started using this new term, nepotism, which he didn’t understand first.

Moreover, Bobby seems to be a concerned parent. He reportedly professed that he wants his kids to not look at him and say he is a loser. He added that he didn’t want his kids to look at him and say he has given up. He wants to be their inspiration as his father is to him.
14/38

Surveen Chawla slams nepotism in Bollywood, says she was once replaced by a star kid

The debate of nepotism has been a topic of discussion over the past few years. Many Bollywood celebs have given their opinion on this topic. The latest to speak about it is 'Hate Story 2' actress Surveen Chawla.

Surveen Chawla recently while speaking to a daily recalled an incident where she was dropped from a film because the makers decided to opt for a star kid with connections in the industry. Speaking about it, Surveen said that it was one of the worst feelings. She revealed that the incident took place six years back when she had left her successful television career to make a big name in Bollywood.

Surveen further revealed that people who have a good position in the industry, don't want to open their eyes. They want to work with only five people who they have been working with. She further added that they need to widen their thoughts as there is a lot of talent out there.

Surveen Chawla was last seen in the much-acclaimed film 'Parched'.
15/38

Taapsee Pannu opens up about nepotism in the industry

Actress Taapsee Pannu, who has carved a niche for herself in Bollywood after establishing herself in the south film industry, opened up about how nepotism in the industry affects newcomers.

Talking about the heated topic that got Bollywood buzzing in 2017, the 'Naam Shabana' actress reportedly said that at times she feels that the star kids take away all the limelight with their presence and the newcomers who have worked hard to make a name for themselves often get ignored because of star kids. She was even reported saying that actors like her, have worked hard to gain stardom from scratch and are then too taken out from projects which she finds "hurtful."

Meanwhile, on the professional front, Taapsee who was last seen opposite Varun Dhawan and Jacqueline Fernandez in 'Judwaa 2' has her kitty full with films like 'Dil Juunglee', 'Soorma', 'Mulk' and 'Manmarziyaan'.
16/38

Ishaan Khatter’s father Rajesh Khatter comes out in defence of his son over nepotism debate

It has been a while that Kangana Ranaut and Karan Johar ignited the debate of nepotism in Bollywood. The issue that still continues to simmer at the backburner recently came to the forefront after Karan introduced Ishaan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor in the movies with his upcoming next, ‘Dhadak’.
This time however, Ishaan’s father Rajesh Khatter came out in support of the filmmaker and his son. He reportedly stated that Karan chose Ishaan because he matches the character he was looking for; young actor with no image. He also went on to pin point the fact that Shahid Kapoor made it big even though his parents Pankaj Kapur and Neelima Azim were not huge stars. He also reportedly said that Ishaan was being targeted for being Shahid’s brother.
17/38

Ayushmann Khurrana: Had I been a star kid, I’d have got launched by 22 or 23

Ayushmann Khurrana, who made his Bollywood debut with an uncanny film 'Vicky Donor' in 2012, has ever since gone on to prove his mantle in the glamourous industry of tinsel town with his choice of films and stellar acting performance opened up about nepotism in Bollywood. Hailing from a non-filmy background with no Bollywood connection, the 'Shubh Mangal Saavdhan' actor is currently considered as one of the bankable stars in the Industry due to his hard-work and effortless acting skills.

In an interview with Filmfare, Ayushmann opened up about nepotism in Bollywood saying "Nepotism exists everywhere. An industrialist’s son will push his son to be an industrialist. If my son is talented and he wants to be an actor, then I’d launch him in a film. But ultimately, it’s your talent which counts." He further added, “Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan, and Ranbir Kapoor are talented. They are not getting films just because they are star kids. But yes, they did get opportunities faster. I was 27 when I got Vicky Donor. Had I been a star kid, I’d have got launched by 22 or 23.” Meanwhile, on the professional front, Ayushmann will soon be seen in Sriram Raghavan's 'Shoot the Piano Player' alongside Tabu.
18/38

Karan Johar brings the nepotism debate to the fore once again with Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt

Nepotism became one of the most trending debates this year after Kangana Ranaut ignited the fire by calling ace director Karan Johar “the flag-bearer of nepotism” on his chat show. The argument hasn’t ceased ever since. Many B-town celebs came and talked about it and gave their takes on the existence of nepotism in Bollywood.

Recently, Karan played host at an event in Mumbai wherein a session he discussed nepotism with his Dharma darlings, Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt. Karan began with saying, "It seems like we are criminals. It's like everywhere we are slapped with legal notices as we are children of parents who are within the film industry."

He asked Ranbir and Alia, what was their take on the infamous debate, to which Ranbir said, “It is a sensitive conservation. At one point, you could be amused by it, but it is a sensitive thing now. My great-grandfather worked hard so that he could give his children the opportunity to do something in life. So on and so forth and it came to me. When I have children, I would like them to have that opportunity and then see how good they are.” Alia echoed a similar opinion when she added, "I wanted to be here (in films), this was my dream. My connection to the family has made things easy for me. Nepotism exists. It exists in Bollywood, the business world and during admissions in schools as well. I don't know if it is a good thing or not. I love my work. I give my 100per cent. I work hard. I don't want to feel apologetic about where I am today. Neither (do I) feel apologetic about being my father's daughter."
19/38

Kareena Kapoor Khan feels nepotism is overrated

Kangana Ranaut invoked the debate on nepotism in Bollywood on Karan Johar’s chat show almost six months back, but the topic continues to rages on. In an exclusive interview with Filmfare magazine, whose cover she will be seen gracing in the next issue, Kareena Kapoor Khan also spoke about the issue of nepotism. She said, “A lot of things seem out of context. Doesn’t nepotism exist in every possible field? But nobody addresses that. In business families, the son takes over the business. A politician’s son takes over his place. These are not considered nepotism but in the industry it makes for a nice read. Also, not many star-kids have achieved what their parents have. So I don’t understand why people are going on about it. Basically, the industry is a ruthless place. It’s about talent and survival of the fittest. Otherwise, a lot of star kids would’ve been No.1 stars in our country.”


She further added, “If there’s Ranbir Kapoor, there’s also Ranveer Singh who’s not from the industry. So honestly, nepotism is overrated. More than in business, more than in politics, in the industry, it’s your hard work and talent that will take you far. That’s exactly the reason why Kangana Ranaut is considered such a great actress. And she’s not from the industry. If there’s Alia Bhatt, there’s also Kangana. It’s not only about star kids.”
20/38

Kangana Ranaut puts an end to the nepotism debate

Months after the never-ending debate on nepotism in the Bollywood film industry, Kangana Ranaut has finally said that she had made her stand on the topic very clear in her open letter and does not feel the need to say anything else on the same.

At an award function, Varun Dhawan along with hosts for the event Karan Johar and Saif Ali Khan mocked Kangana in the wake of the nepotism controversy. Naturally, the trio was at the receiving end for mocking the actress and had to eventually apologise for the same.

In her letter, Kangana had said that the debate and exchange of thoughts on nepotism are "exasperating, but is healthy". At the trailer launch of her upcoming film ‘Simran’, when Ranaut was asked about her take on Saif’s open letter, where he "emphasised" on nepotism being an investment on tried and tested genes, she stated that she had spent a significant part of her life studying genetics. But, failed to understand how one could compare “genetically hybrid racehorses” to “artistes”.

She allegedly questioned whether artistic skills, hard-work, experience, concentration spans, enthusiasm, eagerness, discipline and love, could be inherited through family genes and added that if that were true, she would be a farmer back home.
21/38

Vidya Balan is bored of the nepotism debate

At an event in Mumbai, Vidya Balan came together with Rahul Bose to support an organization’s efforts that aims to eradicate child abuse. The actress was asked for her views on the latest turn of events in the whole nepotism debate, where she expressed her disinterest in giving her opinion on the issue. Vidya said, "With due respect to everyone who embroidered this controversy, I am bored with this discussion on nepotism. I mean I am seriously bored on who is on which side of the debate these days. I turn the page of the newspaper the moment I see the word... I am not interested."
22/38

Imtiaz Ali and Anushka Sharma offer their views on nepotism at the trailer launch of 'Jab Harry Met Sejal'

Much has been said and written about the word 'nepotism' of late. Bollywood got divided into groups, one that supported Kangana Ranaut's comment on the issue and the others who were against it. And now, during the trailer launch of Imtiaz Ali's next 'Jab Harry Met Sejal', Anushka Sharma and the director who were present at the event were too questioned about the issue and they had their own version of the issue. Imtiaz said, "We three (Shah Rukh Khan, Anushka and himself) are outsiders and doesn't have a godfather. I am here just because of my hard work and the love that I received." On the other hand, Anushka had her take on nepotism. She said, "I entered Bollywood because of my talent and there are outsiders who survive on the basis of their talent here."
23/38

Arjun Kapoor on nepotism: No one buys a ticket or offers work based on your surname

The much-publicised debate on nepotism that began when Kangana Ranaut accused Karan Johar of being a flag-bearer of the practice had a snowball effect in Bollywood. Soon, many celebrities like Alia Bhatt, Sonam Kapoor, Anushka Sharma, Ranbir Kapoor, Varun Dhawan and Saif Ali Khan gave their opinion on the issue, and the debate still continues.

The most recent star-kid to share his views on the topic is none other than actor Arjun Kapoor, producer Boney Kapoor’s son. Arjun, who made his Bollywood debut in ‘Ishaqzaade’ (2012), reportedly feels that nepotism exists in every field. According to the actor, there are no degrees in the industry and everyone gets just one chance. He allegedly stated that the doors might have opened for him, courtesy his dad, but after that, it was between the audience and him. He also added that no one buys a ticket or offers work because of one's surname. According to the 'Mubarakan' star, talent is the biggest qualification.
24/38

Ranbir Kapoor says he is a "product of nepotism"

The debate on nepotism doesn’t seem to end in the Indian film industry. From actors to singers to even crew members, many people claim to have been affected by this age old norm of putting family and friends first. While this phenomenon is not restricted to showbiz, stars are often being questioned to have a stand on the very same. So when Ranbir Kapoor was recently asked to share his views, instead of shying away, the actor embraced the fact that he is a "product of nepotism". He further went on to share that films have been his family business from the last 85 years and if he has kids, he would like to provide them with a platform like his family did for him.
25/38

Aadar Jain will have to face the nepotism conversation: Ranbir Kapoor

Ranbir Kapoor's cousin, Aadar Jain, is set to make his film debut and the ‘Jagga Jasoos’ actor said he is aware that the youngster will have to face questions about nepotism. At a special event yesterday, Aadar and Anya Singh were introduced by Ranbir and Anushka Sharma as a part of their unveiling as stars of their debut film.

According to a report on PTI, this is what Ranbir told reporters at the event, "When Aadar called and told me that he bagged the film, I felt a lot of pride and gratefulness. But at the same time, I was a little nervous, not knowing how this boy will be accepted. It is a funny industry.”

Getting to the ongoing nepotism debate, Ranbir added, "Yes, the platform that he has will spark a debate about insiders vs outsiders, nepotism and all of that. But I am going to keep that aside for now. Eventually, we will talk about it, he will have to face it."
26/38

Lisa Ray: Nepotism exists everywhere and in every industry

The nepotism debate which was sparked off months has had celebrities taking sides right up to this day. The latest celeb to join the list of actors sharing their views on the same is actress-model Lisa Ray.

Speaking to TOI Entertainment, she shared her take on the matter saying, “Nepotism exists in Bollywood for sure, but nepotism also exists everywhere and in every industry. I think we see enough fresh talent in our country that it balances out. I mean, it might make it extra difficult for someone with no connections to get the foot in the door. But, it gives them that extra fire and motivation and I think that we are seeing an interesting mix these days of fresh new talent, that doesn’t necessarily have any connections.”

Citing Huma Qureshi and her brother Saqib Salim as an example, she continued, “I mean Huma and Saqib are also an example of that. Huma’s extremely talented and she didn’t necessarily have any family connections but she’s getting her feet in the industry.”

Lisa will be seen next in the film 'Dobaara: See Your Evil', which is scheduled to hit theatres on May 19.

Click here to watch the video.
27/38

Ayushmann Khurrana: The word nepotism is overused these days

Bollywood actor and singer Ayushmann Khurrana has made a name for himself in the industry with some stellar performances in 'Vicky Donor' and 'Dum Laga Ke Haisha'.

The actor is among the few 'outsiders', who have carved a niche for themselves in the Hindi film industry. At an event in New Delhi, Ayushmann was questioned about the raging discussion of 'nepotism' within the industry, to which he said that if he had been in the early 90's era, he wouldn't have been what he is now, as the doors are wide open for the newcomers these days. Adding more to it, Khurrana said that the word nepotism is overused these days and that it should not be over-hyped. "Be it directors, producers or new actors as in every six months, a new actor gets launched," he said.

He went on to add that Indian cinema is going through its best phase as young actors are doing really well for themselves.
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The nepotism debate: Here’s what Bollywood celebs have to say about it

It is believed that Bollywood is a tough turf to manoeuvre for rank outsiders and star kids have it relatively easy. Kangana Ranaut, who is known to speak her mind fearlessly, sparked off a major debate on favouritism in the industry. During her appearance on Karan Johar’s popular chat show, she called the filmmaker “a flag-bearer of nepotism and movie mafia”. Karan promptly retaliated by saying that he has promoted many talents who are outsiders and that Kangana always plays the “victim card”. This led to a war of words and the two stars have been at loggerheads ever since. While it sparked off a debate on nepotism, our B-town stars stand divided on the issue. Here’s a look at what the leading actors of today had to say on the subject…
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Sushant Singh Rajput

Sushant Singh Rajput was a successful television actor who then graduated to films in 2013. Not one to boast of a Godfather in the industry, the ‘Raabta’ actor was asked for his take on nepotism in Bollywood. Stating that he has never borne the brunt of nepotism, he said, “I think nepotism can co-exist with the idea of encouraging new talent from outside of the film industry. I, being an outsider, got the opportunity and luxury of choices to choose the film that I wanted to do. So I have no complaints. But having said that, if new talents won’t get a chance, and only the practice of nepotism continues, then the industry will collapse in some time.”
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Alia Bhatt

She may have been born into a film family and launched in Bollywood by Karan Johar, making her success seem a result of nepotism. However, one cannot question the actress’ talent – even her detractors agree that she is a powerhouse performer. Alia, on her part, thinks that nepotism can only take you so far, and it is one’s hard work and talent that pay off in the long run. She said, “I think a star kid can get that first film due to nepotism. But to constantly get films just because you belong to a filmi family is not possible. I am aware people do struggle to make a mark in the industry, but it’s not right to blame nepotism. I didn’t plan my birth in the Bhatt family. I can't change that and today, I am successful not just because my family is famous, but also because I have worked hard and you can't take it away from me.”
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Anushka Sharma

Anushka Sharma is one of those rank outsiders to have made it big in Bollywood with her sheer hard work and talent. She was launched by Aditya Chopra in the movie industry. When asked about the burning issue of nepotism, the ‘Phillauri’ actress stated that she had never faced it. Anushka said, “First of all, every actor has her own journey in Bollywood. Moreover, if you are good at your work, people will show interest to collaborate with you, irrespective of your background. Ranveer Singh, Parineeti Chopra and all of us were not from the film industry! So being an outsider, I never faced nepotism.”
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Varun Dhawan

Launched by Karan Johar in Bollywood with ‘Student Of The Year’, Varun Dhawan is known to be one of the filmmaker’s favourite ‘students’. The star kid sided with KJo on the nepotism debate. When asked if nepotism exists in the industry, Varun said, “I don’t think so. I don’t want to talk much about it.” However, he also praised Kangana Ranaut for her forthrightness as he said, “I like Kangana, her style and more power to her.”
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Sonam Kapoor

Sonam Kapoor slyly dissed Kangana Ranaut’s claims of nepotism being rampant in Bollywood. When asked about the ‘Queen’ actress’ remarks, Sonam stated that Kangana keeps saying things like these all the time and that it is very entertaining. She also added that she was not much aware about the debate as she was travelling at the time.
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Vidya Balan

Vidya Balan is one actress who has carved a niche for herself on her own merit. However, like Anushka, the ‘Begum Jaan’ actress took a neutral stance on the debate when she said, “Kangana feels that way. To each his own. Everyone has different experiences. I am no one to comment but my experiences are different.”
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Nimrat Kaur

‘The Lunchbox’ actress was of the opinion that the nepotism debate was blown way out of proportion. Nimrat said, “When you talk about nepotism, it is in each and every profession. For example, a lawyer’s son will have an easy way of being a lawyer just by the virtue of having grown up in that environment... and having access to that environment. By the same logic, even an actor’s kid will have that advantage. But then it holds true for just one time as the final word is always with the audience.”
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Taapsee Pannu

The ‘Pink’ star decided to openly side with Karan Johar on the matter and took a dig at Kangana Ranaut as she said, “I’m a proud outsider, nobody forced me to come into the industry. I was aware of the nepotism that exists in the industry and even then, I decided to be a part of it. I don’t like playing the victim card.”
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Manoj Bajpayee

The veteran actor was all praise for Kangana for raising awareness about this important issue. During the promotions of ‘Naam Shabana’, he said, “I’m very happy that because of Kangana, so many people have come to know and understand the meaning of nepotism. The roles I played and have been playing for twenty-three years, these are not roles that any star son or daughter would choose, so I never really faced any competition from them. It was always a topic which was discussed in a very hush-hush way, but I really thank Kangana that it is there in the public domain and for people to discuss and debate about it.”
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Swara Bhaskar

Swara is known to not mince her words when it comes to expressing her opinion on various matters. The ‘Prem Ratan Dhan Payo’ star agreed that Bollywood functions on relationships but she made it clear that she has never faced nepotism. “Bollywood as an industry is based on relationships. It has always been star-driven and it has an element of feudalism. So, it would be difficult for an outsider but my experience of Bollywood is not nepotistic at all. I think people, who have been most warm and nice are people like Karan Johar, Sonam Kapoor and even Aditya Chopra. He has always been very responsive and helpful. Since the whole nepotism debate is going on, I just want to say that Karan has been a revelation to me. He is an industry elite but has been a wonderful surprise,” she said.
Top Comment
B
Bollywoodlover
2574 days ago
Of course he would say that. He himself is Alia Bhatt''s best friend''s boyfriend. He got in to Bollywood through connections. Nepotism indirectly benefits him and he''s not a great actor to begin with
Read allPost comment
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