It is difficult for star kids to escape the ever-evolving debate around nepotism. While they enjoy certain privileges, they are also subject to intense scrutiny, especially in today’s hyper-critical environment.
Actor and veteran star Jeetendra’s son Tusshar Kapoor, who made his acting debut in 2001 with Mujhe Kuch Kehna Hai, recently reflected on how things were different back then – but not entirely free of judgement.
In a conversation with Hindustan Times, Tusshar admitted that when he entered the industry, the nepotism conversation was not so prevalent.
However, he admitted that there was a concerted effort by a section of the media to malign his image because of his filmy background. Recalling his early days, he said, “Especially if you are from a film background, the glass is always half empty for a certain section of the media.
You have to be very thick-skinned. There was a lot of humiliation, a lot of negativity.” The Golmaal actor claimed that there were attempts to derail his journey in the industry, but he chose to remain thick-skinned and focus on his work.
Reflecting on the release of his debut film, he said, “The film (Mujhe Kuch Kehna Hai) released and it did really well. Otherwise, I could have succumbed to the pressure. I didn’t come into the industry thinking that I have to live up to anyone’s expectations.
But there were constant attempts to judge me and derail my path.” Tusshar expressed his gratitude to the audience for supporting him. He also spoke about the pressure of public appearances that come with being a star kid.
According to Tusshar, even something as simple as attending a press event can lead to criticism. “If you come to a press conference naturally without makeup and hair, you are criticised that you are not worthy of looking like a hero.
If you come with makeup and hair, you are told that you are too filmy. Everyone is trying to put you down,” he said. Tusshar admitted that it may be easy for star kids to get their first film, but he was quick to point out that success is not guaranteed.
“You may get your first film very easily. But that is also a chance. Finishing that film and what choices you make after that, it is all unknown. The constant scrutiny and the feeling of ‘whatever you do, the glass is half empty’, it is something you have to face and move on,” he said.
Tusshar’s latest release Kapkapi – a remake of the Malayalam film Romancham – hit theatres on Friday. The film also stars Shreyas Talpade and Siddhi Idnani.
