Alia Bhatt Opens Up About Nepotism and Her Journey in Bollywood

InStyle Australia recently hosted an insightful interview with Bollywood sensation Alia Bhatt, where the talented actress addressed the persistent accusations of nepotism that have shadowed her career since her debut. Known for her exceptional performances in films like “Gangubai Kathiawadi” and “Raazi,” Alia Bhatt is a prominent figure in the Indian film industry. However, her lineage as the daughter of filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt and actress Soni Razdan has frequently drawn scrutiny and claims of an unfair advantage.

Alia began by dispelling the misconception that her father played a pivotal role in launching her career. She emphasized, “It is not like my father ever spoke to me like, ‘Oh, the day you want to act, we will give you this movie.’ He never brought that up. Never.” Alia’s mother, Soni Razdan, herself an actress, faced her own struggles in the industry, highlighting the challenges even within a film family.

Acknowledging her privilege, Alia candidly stated, “My initial response to it was very defensive. But I think with time and age, you realize that there is a lot of struggle in the world. There is a case in admitting the head start and acknowledging I had an easier path to get into the room.”

While Alia has come to terms with her background, her mentor, Karan Johar, who launched her career in “Student Of The Year,” remains unwavering in his stance. He firmly stated, “I will cast who I feel is right. If that person happens to be related to somebody in the industry, then so be it.” Johar, who is known for his influential presence in Bollywood, has been an unapologetic supporter of Alia Bhatt.

Despite the ongoing discourse surrounding nepotism, Alia Bhatt continues to excel in her craft. She was recently announced as the recipient of the 69th National Film Awards for Best Actress for her outstanding performance in “Gangubai Kathiawadi.” This recognition further solidifies her status as a talented actress, irrespective of her background, and reaffirms her commitment to her artistry.

Alia Bhatt’s journey in Bollywood serves as a reminder of the complexities surrounding nepotism in the film industry, where talent and privilege often intersect, leaving room for important conversations about equal opportunities and recognition for all.