Tanishaa Mukerji, sister of actress Kajol and a well-known actor herself, recently spoke out in support of nepotism in Bollywood. She also criticized outsiders in the industry, claiming they often lack loyalty and only aim to benefit from it.
Tanishaa’s Stand on Nepotism
In a candid interview with Pinkvilla, Tanishaa stated that she values industry insiders and star kids. She said:
“I love my film industry. I love people born into it. I support my nepo babies because they think of giving back to Bollywood, not just taking from it.”
She further expressed disappointment with the constant criticism of Bollywood, despite its contributions to Indian culture:
“We say ‘Make in India,’ but Bollywood is already made in India with Indian talent and stories. So why are we being penalized or bashed?”
Outsiders vs Industry Families
Tanishaa highlighted the differences between industry insiders and outsiders:
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Film families prioritize giving back to the industry.
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Outsiders often focus on personal gains and may lack loyalty to Bollywood.
“When you come from a film family, your goal isn’t just to act or produce. You think about nourishing the industry and supporting every department—from stunt teams to upcoming talent,” she explained.
She added that children of industry families often continue this cycle of support and contribution, which strengthens Bollywood.
Nepotism Debate and Its Background
The debate on nepotism gained traction after Sushant Singh Rajput’s death in 2020, sparking discussions about how outsiders face challenges in Bollywood. Following this, actors like Kangana Ranaut and Taapsee Pannu openly spoke about industry barriers and launched their own projects to support outsider talent.
Earlier, Saif Ali Khan also commented on nepotism, comparing star kids to “race horses bred for a purpose,” emphasizing the role of talent passed down through generations.
Conclusion
Tanishaa Mukerji’s statements reignite the discussion on nepotism in Bollywood. She emphasizes loyalty, gratitude, and contribution as the core principles for anyone entering the film industry. Her perspective highlights why industry families often have a stronger sense of responsibility compared to outsiders.
