Bollywood filmmaker Karan Johar has announced the launch of Ibrahim Ali Khan, son of Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh, reigniting conversations around nepotism in the industry. Ibrahim is set to make his acting debut in Dharma Productions' Sarzameen, directed by Kayoze Irani.
Karan took to Instagram to share the news, posting images of Ibrahim and recalling his long-standing bond with the Khan family. He reminisced about meeting Amrita Singh when he was 12 and praised her presence on screen, adding that her warmth and grace extend to her children. Similarly, he recalled his first meeting with Saif Ali Khan, describing him as charismatic and effortless—qualities he sees in Ibrahim as well.
Having known the family for 40 years, Karan emphasised their deep-rooted connection to cinema, stating that "films are in their blood and genes." While many in the industry congratulated Ibrahim on his debut, social media erupted with mixed reactions. Some users celebrated his entry into Bollywood, while others criticised the industry's pattern of favouring star kids over outsiders. Comments like “Nepotism at its peak” and “Another launch, another debate” flooded online discussions.
Adding to the attention, some users humorously compared Karan Johar’s obsession with legacy and lineage to Salazar Slytherin from Harry Potter, pointing out how he repeatedly emphasises family connections in his casting choices. Others questioned whether talent or just background determines success in Bollywood.
Ibrahim has previously worked as an assistant director on Rocky Aur Rani Kii Proem Kahani, gaining experience behind the camera before stepping into the spotlight. His debut in Sarzameen is highly anticipated, with reports suggesting veteran actress Kajol will also play a significant role in the film.
Following Karan’s announcement, Ibrahim’s sister, actress Sara Ali Khan, also expressed her excitement. She reposted Karan’s Instagram post on her story with the message, “Welcome to movies.”
The announcement also comes just weeks after Ibrahim’s father, Saif Ali Khan, was attacked during an attempted robbery at his residence. Despite the ongoing nepotism debate, Ibrahim's entry into Bollywood is set, and all eyes will be on how he carves his own path in the industry.
A scene from The Thursday Murder Club, where four retirees turn amateur detectives in a quiet British village shaken by a real murderInstagram/NetflixUK
Stills from Andaz Apna Apna
Stills from Andaz Apna Apna
Vinay Kumar Sinha
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.