Post by : Meena Ariff

Filmmaker Kiran Rao has expressed her inclination towards collaborating with fresh talent in Bollywood, pointing to escalated entourage costs as a significant factor. After introducing three new actors—Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, and Sparsh Shrivastava—in her recent film Laapataa Ladies, Rao underscores that newcomers often come without the weighty expectations tied to established star families.

“They naturally fit into the independent film environment. My sets prioritize equality for everyone, work-life balance, and minimal waste. Fresh faces adjust to this ethos more readily,” she articulated.

When comparing the experiences of outsiders to that of star children, such as Aamir Khan’s son Junaid Khan, she remarked on the differing audience perceptions. “A so-called ‘nepo kid’ is viewed through a lens of privilege. Although their path has challenges, they endure ongoing expectations. Newcomers, on the other hand, allow audiences to connect with their journey and evolution,” she explained.

On whether outsiders have an easier time breaking into the industry, Rao concurred. “Today, there’s a desire to uncover raw talent organically. While the allure of star families persists, true stardom demands responsibility. Outsiders often enjoy the benefit of being judged solely on their performances,” she noted.

She also remarked on a significant transformation in the industry: “The classic star system is gradually diminishing. In contemporary times, social media followings, web series, and collaborations with directors define stardom. Audiences are exploring talent through diverse avenues, leading to a profound shift in what being a star actually means.”

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