Veteran actress Kajol has come forward to defend the younger generation of Bollywood actors, particularly star kids like Ibrahim Ali Khan, highlighting the intense pressures they face in today’s unforgiving entertainment landscape.
A New Era of Instant Judgment
Speaking candidly about the current state of the industry, Kajol revealed her concerns about how quickly young actors are expected to establish themselves. Unlike previous generations who had the luxury of time to develop their craft across multiple projects, today’s newcomers find themselves in what she describes as a “sink or swim” scenario.
“The game has completely changed,” Kajol explained during a recent interview. “Earlier, we had breathing room to grow, to make mistakes, and to find our footing. Today’s actors don’t have that privilege – they’re judged from their very first appearance.”
The Double-Edged Sword of Legacy
While acknowledging that having famous parents can open doors, Kajol emphasized that it also brings unique challenges. The scrutiny is more intense, the expectations are higher, and the criticism can be particularly harsh when things don’t go as planned.
“Yes, being a star kid might get you noticed faster, but it also means every move you make is under a microscope,” she observed. “The online world can be especially brutal, and these young people are dealing with that pressure from day one.”
Supporting Ibrahim Ali Khan
Kajol’s comments come as she prepares to work alongside Ibrahim Ali Khan, son of actors Saif Ali Khan and Amrita Singh, in the upcoming patriotic drama “Sarzameen.” The film, set to premiere on JioCinema on July 25th, will see Kajol playing Ibrahim’s mother.
Ibrahim’s previous work faced significant online criticism, something Kajol believes reflects the harsh reality young actors navigate today. “These kids come prepared – they’ve trained, they’ve studied the craft – but we as an audience could show more patience and kindness,” she suggested.
The Art of Constant Reinvention
Beyond defending young actors, Kajol also discussed how the definition of a successful career has evolved. Today’s performers must be multifaceted, constantly adapting and exploring new avenues beyond traditional filmmaking.
“It’s not just about acting anymore,” she explained. “They’re creating digital content, starting businesses, building fashion brands, and engaging with audiences in ways we never had to consider. The landscape demands constant innovation.”
This shift, according to Kajol, means that the traditional markers of longevity in Bollywood may not apply to the current generation. Instead, success is being redefined through diversification and adaptability.
A Call for Compassion
While recognizing the resilience and preparation of today’s young actors, Kajol made a heartfelt plea for more understanding from audiences and critics alike. She believes that while constructive feedback is valuable, the current climate of online hostility serves no one.
“These young people are finding their own ways to build lasting careers,” she concluded. “They’re exploring paths we never imagined, and they deserve our support as they navigate this challenging but exciting time in the industry.”
As the entertainment world continues to evolve at breakneck speed, Kajol’s words serve as both a reality check and a reminder that behind every debut and every performance is a young person trying to find their place in an increasingly complex industry.
