I was a diligent student during my school days, excelling in academics and participating in extempore and debate competitions. However, I never engaged in sports or social service activities like NCC or attended picnics or tournaments. Despite this, a few girls like me, who dedicated ourselves to studying and pleasing our teachers, were favored over other students. We were chosen for activities that would showcase our abilities and bring recognition to the school.
At the time, I was oblivious to the potential issues with this preferential treatment. I recall a fellow student accusing our class teacher of favoritism when I was selected for an off-site plantation camp. I was enraged. How could she make such an accusation? After all, I was a top performer and the teacher’s pet. But in retrospect, I understand that she had a valid point.
The purpose of the camp was to promote environmental conservation, not to showcase academic prowess at a rival school’s science exhibition. Perhaps she should have been chosen instead. Years later, amid widespread discussions about favoritism, I can empathize with her frustration, and I deeply regret the situation.
But what exactly is favoritism? If we look around, we can find historical examples. Before the Indian sub-continent embraced democracy, kings and queens ruled based solely on inheritance. No one questioned their capability to govern an entire kingdom because it was assumed that a prince would succeed a king on the throne, just as a cobbler’s son would inherit the family shoe shop. Naturally, nepotism is not a new concept.
Despite proudly proclaiming India as the largest democratic country in the world, not much has changed. Although leaders are elected by the people, some still benefit from the power of inheritance, taking over their parents’ positions in political parties, securing ambassadorships, and acquiring personal bodyguards. The Gandhi family is a prime example. Unfortunately, favoritism extends beyond politics. Many industries, particularly entertainment, have also been accused of falling prey to favoritism.
Bollywood, in particular, has long been associated with nepotism, thanks to figures like Karan Johar and Salman Khan, who have introduced numerous star kids to the industry. However, the issue gained significant attention following the tragic suicide of talented actor Sushant Singh Rajput. Rajput was one of the industry’s most beloved young actors, captivating audiences with his exceptional performances and charming smile.
The news of his suicide, allegedly driven by prevalent nepotism in the industry, caused an uproar. Fans and audiences went to the extent of filing cases against star kids for merely existing in Bollywood. Furthermore, senior singers from the music industry joined the debate, expressing support or dissent. As these discussions resurface, we must question our role as the audience in this scenario. While industry veterans voice their opinions against favoritism and nepotism, what responsibilities do we hold?
Some argue that we should boycott movies featuring star kids and stop supporting artists who have effortlessly climbed the ladder of success due to their lineage. However, this may not be the most appropriate approach. Since the entertainment industry (including soap operas, movies, and songs) has been plagued by remakes, senseless storylines, and exaggerated emotions, the audience’s role in its survival has been consistently highlighted.
While it is the responsibility of content creators to provide us with quality content, it is our duty to refuse to accept mediocrity. The same principle applies to nepotism. Although we cannot prevent untalented star kids from receiving grand launches, we can certainly avoid wasting our time and money by not watching their movies.
We should only tolerate good content and reject the garbage conveniently served to us in the form of shallow plots, skin-deep performances, and insipid songs. It is our responsibility to appreciate true art. We can choose to watch movies featuring talented actors from non-entertainment backgrounds, while also supporting star kids when they deliver compelling content. It is not their fault that they were born into privilege, but it is our collective responsibility to not grant them undue advantages.
If you choose to watch “Sonchiriya,” give “Raazi” a chance as well. Let us respect the art, if not the artist. Let us pave the way for a world where good content prevails, regardless of its origin.