Sushant Singh Rajput’s death by suicide resurfaced the nepotism debate in Bollywood. Outraged netizens and industry insiders allege that the industry’s favouritism and “mafiagiri“ led him to take this tragic step. Many celebrities have been coming out with their own experiences with nepotism, too, calling out the Bollywood biggies. In short, the revolution against “privilege” has begun and nobody is spared.
Alia Bhatt, Kareena Kapoor, Sonam Kapoor (in fact, ALL the Kapoors), the new-age celebrity kids such as Ananya Panday, Sara Ali Khan, etc.–the general rouse is that none of them would have probably reached where they have with such ease if it weren’t for favouring relatives.
Amidst the debate, Alia Bhatt’s mother Soni Razdan has reacted to what’s going on on the Internet. Just to jog your memory, when the news of SSR’s death first broke out, KJo and Alia were mercilessly trolled for being hypocrites as the actress had once said on Koffee With Karan, “Sushant Singh Rajput who?”. Ever since then, she’s been a hot target for being a product of nepotism. Soni’s defensive entry into the debate started with filmmaker Hansal Mehta’s tweets:
He will make films not because I will produce them. I might not. But because he deserves to make them. He will have a career only if he survives. It is ultimately him and not his father who will build his career. My shadow is both his biggest benefit and greatest bane.
— Hansal Mehta (@mehtahansal) June 23, 2020
Replying to the Simran director, Soni wrote, “The expectation that people have because of whose son or daughter you are is much more. Also, those who r ranting about nepotism today and who have made it on their own will also have kids one day. And what if they want to join the industry? Will they stop them from doing so?“
The expectation that people have because of whose son or daughter you are is much more. Also thise who r ranting about nepotism today and who have made it on their own will also have kids one day. And what if they want to join the industry? Will they stop them from doing so ?
— Soni Razdan (@Soni_Razdan) June 23, 2020
Soon, this became a viral dialogue. In response to Soni’s point, Hansal further tweeted getting a nod of “Yup!” from the veteran actress. Here’s what he wrote back:
The debate has been narrowed down to target certain people. Not for the sake of reform or larger good. Before nepotism ends we must work towards reducing hypocrisy and 'vested interest publicity'. Bullying must end. Bullies must be called out. Not talent.
— Hansal Mehta (@mehtahansal) June 23, 2020
Do you think this is happening to end nepotism in the Indian entertainment industry before someone else takes their life or are people simply following the herd mentality and targeting a select few to take out their frustration? As Mr Mehta said, “Bullies must be called out. Not talent.”
Featured Image: Instagram
