Bollywood has been grappling with an identity crisis, with many questioning whether the industry's golden era is over. A recent social media debate reignited the discussion, claiming that the industry is in decline due to the absence or sporadic appearances of major stars like Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, and Shah Rukh Khan. Harsh Varrdhan Kapoor, actor and son of Anil Kapoor, responded with a sharp critique of Bollywood’s over-reliance on big-budget, star-driven films, arguing that it is time for a shift toward strong storytelling.
A user on X posted, "Bollywood is finished. Salman doesn’t want to act, Aamir has no films, Akshay has a dozen films but none that matter, SRK does a film every two years, and Ajay is playing it safe. Ranbir Kapoor seems like the only one carrying the industry forward."
Kapoor disagreed with the sentiment, stating that Bollywood should not revolve solely around a handful of superstars and formula-driven blockbusters. He emphasised the need for producers and financiers to take risks on fresh concepts with controlled budgets rather than chasing outdated commercial formulas. He pointed out that well-executed films can be made with significantly lower budgets if money is spent wisely on the craft rather than unnecessary expenses.
"It’s 2025, and the films that are getting approved belong in the 1980s—and not even the good ones. Producers should be focusing on high-concept, low-cost films instead of sticking to the usual tropes. If budgets are kept in check and the focus remains on quality storytelling, the audience will come," Kapoor remarked. He cited the example of his own project, 'Thar,' which he claims looked visually superior to many films that cost two or three times as much simply because every penny was invested in the film itself rather than on inflated production expenses.
He further defended his own career choices when a user suggested he was wasting his potential. Kapoor acknowledged that breaking away from conventional Bollywood filmmaking is extremely challenging, saying, "You have no idea how difficult it is to create something unconventional in this industry. It can take years to bring one film like 'Bhavesh Joshi' or 'Thar' to life. Instead of waiting for opportunities, I have taken it upon myself to produce, co-create, and act in meaningful projects."
Kapoor also pointed out that there are many talented filmmakers in India who struggle to get their vision funded. He mentioned Raj Singh Chaudhary, the director of 'Thar,' as an example of an under-the-radar talent who was given a chance and delivered. Kapoor stated that if he receives the right backing, he is committed to bringing unique and memorable films to the audience.
Harsh Varrdhan Kapoor made his debut in 2016 with 'Mirzya,' a film that failed to make a mark at the box office. However, he gained recognition for his work in 'Bhavesh Joshi Superhero' and 'Thar.' Up next, he is set to portray Olympic gold medallist Abhinav Bindra in an upcoming biopic.
Kapoor’s remarks bring to light the larger ongoing debate about the need for Bollywood to evolve beyond its traditional formula and embrace fresh narratives. As the industry continues to face challenges, voices like his may hopefully encourage a much-needed shift toward quality-driven cinema.
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire
Rahul Bhatt sparks controversy over 'insensitive' remarks about sisters Alia and Pooja Bhatt
Rahul Bhatt, fitness trainer and son of veteran filmmaker Mahesh Bhatt, has found himself at the centre of a social media storm following controversial remarks about his half-sister, Alia Bhatt. In a recent interview, Rahul drew comparisons between Alia and their older sister Pooja Bhatt, calling the latter more talented, attractive, and principled.
The comments, which many have labelled inappropriate and insensitive, have sparked widespread criticism online. During the interview, Rahul stated, “In my opinion, she (Alia) is not even half of what my real sister Pooja is. Not in talent, not in looks, not in terms of being sexy. In front of my sister, she is ‘paani kam chai’ (watery tea). Amongst the siblings, the most talented and the most moralistic is Pooja.”
Social media users reacted strongly, questioning why Rahul would compare his sisters in such personal terms. Several users were particularly disturbed by his reference to their appearance and sex appeal, pointing out that such comparisons within a family cross boundaries of propriety. One comment read, “This is disturbing. Why talk about your sisters like that? It’s not just weird, it’s wrong.” Another post said, “There’s nothing respectful about comparing your siblings’ attractiveness in public.”
The backlash also reignited conversation around a decades-old controversy involving Mahesh Bhatt and Pooja Bhatt. Rahul was asked about the infamous 1990s magazine cover where the father-daughter duo shared a kiss, which had stirred public outrage at the time. Dismissing the criticism, Rahul said, “It doesn’t make any difference. It’s like water off a duck’s back. We know the truth, and we’ve seen everything since childhood.”
Rahul’s casual dismissal of that controversy has added fuel to the fire, with critics saying it reflects a broader issue of the Bhatt family being insensitive to public perception and boundaries. Many users questioned the need for bringing up old incidents in a bid to defend new and equally questionable statements.
As of now, neither Alia Bhatt nor Pooja Bhatt has issued any public response to Rahul’s remarks. Both actors, known for their significant contributions to Indian cinema, have typically kept family matters private despite living in the public eye.
This episode has also sparked debate over the role of public figures in maintaining respect when discussing family matters in the media. Observers say such comments, especially when involving women’s appearance and personal qualities, reinforce problematic attitudes and fuel unnecessary controversies.
While Rahul Bhatt is not as prominent in the entertainment industry as his father or sisters, his comments have made headlines and placed the Bhatt family in the spotlight for reasons beyond their creative work. For many, this serves as a reminder that public platforms come with responsibility, and that family ties should not be trivialised or dissected for attention or comparison.
The backlash is unlikely to subside soon, especially as fans and followers of Alia and Pooja continue to express disappointment over the way the situation has unfolded. Whether or not Rahul chooses to clarify or apologise remains to be seen.