Shahid Kapoor, the son of actors Pankaj Kapoor and Neelima Azeem, may have been born into a Bollywood family, but he considers himself an ‘outsider’ in the film industry. In a recent episode of No Filter Neha, he opened up to host Neha Dhupia about the challenges he faced while trying to establish himself as an actor without any special privileges. Let’s dive deeper into Shahid Kapoor’s journey and his perspective on the bias against outsiders in Bollywood.
Shahid Kapoor on the Struggles of an Outsider
Shahid Kapoor revealed that despite having a father in the industry, he did not receive any preferential treatment to kickstart his career. He emphasized that only ‘stars, superstars, and directors’ have the power to do so, leaving ‘character actors’ like him to pave their own way. The actor spoke about the prevalent bias against outsiders in Bollywood, with fewer opportunities being extended to newcomers who lack connections in the industry.
Upholding Work and Talent
While discussing his own path to success, Shahid Kapoor credited his hard work, dedication, and passion for acting as the driving forces behind his journey. He mentioned that his growth and achievements were solely based on his skills and learning experiences in the industry. However, he expressed concern over the increasing trend of favoring insiders or actors with familial ties for movie roles, which he believes compromises the quality of films.
Battling Bullying and Rejection
Recalling his transition from Delhi to Mumbai, Shahid Kapoor shared his experiences of feeling like an outsider throughout his life. He recounted instances of facing discrimination in school due to his accent and struggling to make friends in a new environment. The actor likened his early days in Bollywood to a school setting, where outsiders are met with skepticism and resistance from established groups.
Taking a Stand Against Bias
Despite the challenges he has faced, Shahid Kapoor asserted that he refuses to be pigeonholed into any particular ‘camp’ in Bollywood. He expressed his belief in fostering creative collaborations based on mutual respect and talent, rather than exclusivity and favoritism. The actor acknowledged his past hesitance to confront bullies but declared his readiness to stand up for himself and others against unfair treatment.
Looking Ahead
Shahid Kapoor’s honesty and candor about the biases in Bollywood shed light on the need for inclusivity and equal opportunities in the film industry. As he continues to excel in his career, he serves as a role model for aspiring actors who come from non-film backgrounds. His upcoming projects, such as the highly anticipated film “Deva,” are eagerly awaited by fans who appreciate his talent and authenticity on screen.
In a world where Bollywood seems preoccupied with camps and cliques, Shahid Kapoor stands as a beacon of independence and talent, defying the odds and breaking barriers along the way.
Shahid Kapoor’s journey from an outsider to a respected actor in Bollywood epitomizes resilience, determination, and the pursuit of excellence. His words serve as a reminder that talent knows no bounds and that diversity in the entertainment industry is essential for its growth and vitality.
