Kiran Rao on Outsiders, Nepotism and Bollywood’s Changing Stardom

Director Kiran Rao has opened up about her preference for working with newcomers in the Hindi film industry, citing the rising costs of film entourages as a key reason. Having launched three fresh actors—Nitanshi Goel, Pratibha Ranta, and Sparsh Shrivastava—with her film Laapataa Ladies last year, Rao emphasized that newcomers come without the baggage that established star kids often carry.

“Organically, they just fit the scenario of an independent film. I make films where everyone on set is treated equally, with fair working hours, minimal resources, and little wastage. Fresh actors adapt more easily to that environment,” Rao explained.

On comparing her experience launching outsiders to star kids like Aamir Khan’s son Junaid Khan, she noted the difference in audience perception. “A so-called ‘nepo kid’ carries a lens of privilege. While their journey may be hard in its own way, they constantly face expectations and scrutiny. With newcomers, audiences are willing to grow with them and appreciate their strengths and weaknesses,” she said.

Asked if it is easier for outsiders to make a mark than star kids, Rao agreed. “In today’s world, people want to discover talent organically. They are curious about stars and their children, but creating a star takes responsibility. Outsiders often have the advantage of being evaluated purely on their work,” she observed.

Rao also highlighted a larger shift in the industry: “The traditional star system is fading. Today’s stardom comes from followings across social media, web series, films, or even through directors. The audience is discovering talent in different ways, and the idea of stardom has fundamentally changed.”