Actor Emraan Hashmi—known for successes like “Murder,” “Jannat,” and “Raaz: The Mystery Continues”—recently spoke on nepotism in Bollywood, the “boycott Bollywood” trend, and the effects of social media on the business. Playing Raghu Khanna in the streaming series “Showtime,” hashmi discussed the subtleties of nepotism and its impact on the film business.
Hashmi admitted that nepotism does occur in Bollywood, allowing some people an unfair advantage based on their contacts. Still, he underlined that one’s talent and the audience’s acceptance define success in the field eventually. “Nepotism is an unfair advantage certain people enjoy due of their contacts or relationships. Actually, albeit in our field you could find an easy entrance point, the audience determines the outcome. They choose whether or not you will remain in this field, Hashmi said.
He noted that although nepotism could present someone with their first chance, industry longevity depends on the reaction of the public to their performance. “You might get your first film as a director or an actor, but you cannot have longevity here if people do not enjoy the film or you as an actor,” he said. Hashmi also emphasized the success stories of numerous performers from non-film backgrounds who broke through nepotism with great success, therefore demonstrating that skill and diligence can transcend obstacles.
Dealing with the “boycott Bollywood” tendency, Hashmi observed that although it was an unwelcome phenomena influencing the sector, it did not spread widely. Emphasizing the symbiotic link between the media and the cinema business, he said, “The Bollywood boycott trend started and the industry had to pay the price, but it couldn’t last since a number of films were profitable despite that. Film and media coexist; we are not as successful without the media, and vice versa.”
Regarding social media’s function, Hashmi admitted its two-fold character. Although it is a great tool for reaching millions, it also delivers unwelcome hostility and trolls. “If you wish to see millions of people view your video, social media is a really effective strategy. Still, there are plenty of unwelcome behaviors including trolling. In the end, even if you don’t advertise a terrific film on social media, word-of-mouth will help it to be successful,” he said.
Additionally mentioned by Hashmi were the forthcoming three “Showtime” episodes, scheduled to premiere on July 12. Produced by Dharmatic Entertainment and under direction by Mihir Desai and Archit Kumar, the show follows Raghu Khanna’s path toward ambition and atonement. With Mouni Roy, Naseeruddin Shah, Mahima Makwana, Rajeev Khandelwal, Shriya Saran, and Vijay Raaz among its ensemble cast, “Showtime” captures the life of its characters by exposing their weaknesses and inner conflicts in the context of showbusiness.
“Expect the unexpected—especially from Raghu Khanna. About the series’ ending, Hashmi said, “He is going to do something that will surprises you.” Disney+ Hotstar will stream “Showtime” starting on July 12.
