Karan, Aditya & I Born with Golden Spoons, Sell Fairytale: Sooraj
The film industry is often perceived as a platform where talented individuals rise to fame, overcoming obstacles and hardships. However, according to filmmaker Sooraj Barjatya, this notion is far from reality for some big names in Bollywood. In a recent interview, Barjatya revealed that himself, Aditya Chopra, and Karan Johar were born with “golden spoons” and have never experienced the harsh realities of life. This statement has sparked a debate about the privilege enjoyed by some members of the film industry.
Barjatya, known for his iconic films like “Maine Pyar Kiya” and “Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!”, emphasized that the trio’s upbringing was a far cry from the struggles faced by many aspiring actors. “We have always travelled in cars,” he stated. “We showed the kind of world that was a fairytale, and the 90s were an era when the audience wanted to see fairytales.”
The filmmaker’s statement is a candid admission of the privileged upbringing he and his contemporaries enjoyed. As members of influential families, they were given every opportunity to succeed in the film industry. Barjatya’s father, OP Barjatya, was a renowned producer, while Aditya Chopra is the son of the legendary Yash Chopra, and Karan Johar hails from a family of filmmakers.
This comment has sparked a discussion about the role of privilege in the entertainment industry. While many aspiring actors struggle to make a name for themselves, some filmmakers are born with a silver spoon in their mouth. This is not to say that they are not talented or hardworking, but rather that their upbringing has given them an unfair advantage.
In an industry where nepotism is a major topic of discussion, Barjatya’s statement is a significant admission. Many have argued that nepotism is a major reason for the lack of diversity in the film industry, with talented actors and filmmakers being overlooked in favor of those with connections.
However, Barjatya’s comment is also a reminder that the 1990s were a different era in Bollywood. The industry was dominated by a few big names, and audiences were more interested in watching fairytale-like stories on screen. The films produced during this era were often grand, melodramatic, and idealistic, catering to the audience’s desire for escapism.
The debate surrounding Barjatya’s statement is not limited to the film industry. It also reflects the broader societal issue of privilege and its impact on opportunities. In a country where social mobility is limited, the advantage of being born into a wealthy or influential family can be a significant factor in determining one’s success.
In conclusion, Sooraj Barjatya’s statement about being born with “golden spoons” is a candid admission of the privilege he and his contemporaries enjoyed. While it highlights the unfair advantages that some individuals have, it also reminds us that the 1990s were a different era in Bollywood, where audiences were more interested in watching fairytale-like stories on screen.
As the film industry continues to evolve, it is essential to acknowledge the role of privilege and work towards creating a more level playing field. By promoting diversity and giving opportunities to talented individuals from all backgrounds, we can create a more inclusive and representative industry that truly reflects the diversity of Indian society.
