The ongoing conversation about nepotism in Bollywood has intensified once again, particularly with the entrance of star kids like Suhana Khan, Khushi Kapoor, and Agastya Nanda into the film industry through their roles in “The Archies.” These young actors, who have gained significant attention due to their renowned parentage, have sparked fresh debates about the challenges of fairness and the pressure that comes with being a star child in a highly scrutinized industry.
In a recent interview, actress Delnaaz Irani, who appears in “The Archies,” voiced her concerns regarding the unrealistic comparisons often made between these newcomers and their iconic parents. Delnaaz expressed, “Why would you compare Khushi to Sridevi? Why can’t you just let her be? This is a stupid topic,” highlighting the unnecessary pressure such comparisons create.
She shared her empathy for star kids who endure intense scrutiny, stating, “I feel they are more under pressure. They can break down even before they attempt anything because there is so much pressure.” Delnaaz further praised Agastya Nanda as a well-mannered and respectful individual, saying, “He is such a well brought-up kid. The kind of respect, the kind of conversation… the work and the dedication.”
Addressing the criticism of nepotism, Delnaaz reflected on her own hypothetical scenario: “If I had a daughter who wanted to become an actor, I would also try and approach Karan Johar or any of the other filmmakers I have worked with.” This assertion underlines a common sentiment in the industry—seeking connections is a natural part of pursuing a career in film.
Moreover, Delnaaz defended star kid Abhishek Bachchan against comparisons with his legendary father Amitabh Bachchan, emphasizing that any actor would seem lesser when compared to someone of Mr. Bachchan’s stature.
Undoubtedly, the concern over star kids facing undue pressure resonates in light of recent events, such as Khushi Kapoor once again finding herself compared to Sridevi following the leak of photos from the sets of “Mom 2.” As these young talents strive to carve their own identities in the film world, it is crucial to foster an environment that celebrates their individual journeys without the overshadowing legacy of their parents.
The current conversation surrounding nepotism serves as a reminder of the need for nurturing talent without the burden of legacy comparisons, offering a hopeful outlook for a new generation of actors to thrive on their own merits in the competitive landscape of Bollywood.