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Aryan Khan, the eldest son of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, is poised to make his directorial debut with the Netflix series “The Ba***ds of Bollywood.” This venture not only marks a significant milestone in his personal career but also carries the weight of his family’s illustrious legacy. As the industry and audiences alike anticipate this release, it’s essential to delve into the factors that set Aryan apart, the expectations surrounding him, and the reasons behind India’s keen interest in his journey.
Legacy and expectations
Being the progeny of Shah Rukh Khan, often referred to as the “King of Bollywood,” Aryan is no stranger to the limelight. His lineage brings with it immense expectations, as the public and industry stakeholders anticipate that he will uphold, if not surpass, the standards set by his father. This phenomenon, where star kids are expected to emulate or exceed their parents’ success, is prevalent in Bollywood. However, it also subjects them to intense scrutiny and comparisons, often overshadowing their individual talents and efforts.
Reacting to Aryan’s decision of becoming a director and not an actor like his father, filmmaker Kunal Kohli told ETimes, “I think what’s very interesting is that Aryan has chosen to become a filmmaker. Not too many star kids—in fact, producers’ children, directors’ kids—choose to be actors. But Aryan has chosen a completely different path of being a filmmaker. And I think I’ve got to congratulate him for that. Kudos to him for taking a different path, for being so different.”
He further shared, “I think this just shows his mindset. This shows how differently he thinks. And I am very certain that he is going to make a revolutionary and path-breaking show. He has already launched a vodka brand, so he does things very differently. He doesn’t do things that people normally do.”
“Being a director is far more difficult than being an actor. Well, an actor’s job is also very difficult, but a director’s job is a lot, lot more difficult. Hats off to him for choosing this path. I think just by this selection alone, he has raised a lot of curiosity. He has gathered a lot of praise, and that is going to work very well for him,” he added.
Aryan’s journey to direction
Unlike many star kids who opt for acting, Aryan has chosen to step behind the camera. His decision to direct rather than act indicates a desire to carve out his own niche in the industry. According to a report in NDTV, Aryan was determined to cast fresh talents in his directorial debut, leading to the selection of actors like Lakshya and Sahher Bambba for pivotal roles. This move not only showcases his commitment to bringing new faces to the forefront but also reflects his confidence in his creative vision.
From a trade perspective, Girish Wankhede said, “The anticipation surrounding Aryan Khan’s directorial debut is reaching a fever pitch, especially with the exciting new series of Ba**ds of Bollywood’ set to launch in June. This project promises to be a game-changer, not only for Aryan but for the entire industry, given its impressive star cast that includes the immensely popular Bobby Deol and the rising talent Lakshya.”
He further shared, “To maximize its reach and impact, the series will be promoted aggressively during the IPL, tapping into the massive viewership and fan engagement that the cricket tournament attracts. This strategic marketing approach is expected to create a buzz that resonates with both Bollywood enthusiasts and cricket fans alike.”
“Adding to the excitement, there are rumours that iconic figures such as Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, and Aamir Khan will make special appearances in the series, further elevating its appeal.
Expectations are sky-high, and it is anticipated that it will not just open well but will be a massive success, captivating audiences and setting new benchmarks in the industry. This project is sure to be a defining moment for Aryan Khan, marking his entry into the world of filmmaking with a bang,” he added.
Creative vision and style
According to LiveMint, ‘The Ba***ds of Bollywood’ is described as a multi-genre project offering an unabashed, entertaining ride’ through the adventures of a charming, ambitious outsider navigating the glitzy yet tricky world of Bollywood.
This narrative suggests that Aryan aims to present a meta-commentary on the industry, possibly drawing from his own experiences and observations. His approach to storytelling, choice of subject matter, and casting decisions indicate a fresh perspective that seeks to blend realism with entertainment.
Kunal Kohli stated, “By making this choice, he has shown us that he thinks differently. And the teaser—oh my God, what a lovely teaser that was! As an actor, he was so good in it. But the whole concept was so interesting. I think everyone’s really looking forward to Aryan’s debut as a director. I can’t remember the last time a star son debuted as a director. I think it was Aditya Chopra. After that, it’s Aryan Khan.”
Behind the scenes
The series reportedly boasts a robust ensemble cast, with Bobby Deol and Lakshya taking on the leading roles. Additionally, notable cameos are anticipated from industry stalwarts such as Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, Ranveer Singh, and Alia Bhatt. These collaborations not only add star power to the project but also signify the industry’s support for Aryan’s directorial venture.
Talking about bringing something fresh to Bollywood, actor-writer and producer, Vivek Vaswani told ETimes, “I think it is very important that directors understand that freshness, uniqueness, etc., are all part of success. None of the directors or stars that I launched faced any obstacles—they knew their job, they were mentored by me, and they were successful. Why should Aryan face any obstacles? He’s being launched by the best!”
Public perception
The public’s fascination with Aryan Khan stems from a combination of his lineage and his personal demeanour. Known for maintaining a relatively low profile compared to other star kids, Aryan’s reserved nature has only amplified the intrigue surrounding him. His decision to direct, rather than follow the more traditional acting route, further piques interest, as audiences are eager to see how he will translate his vision onto the screen.
Wankhede shared, “As the son of Bollywood superstar Shah Rukh Khan, Aryan’s foray into directing is closely watched, sparking intrigue about his creative vision and storytelling abilities. Audiences are eager to see how he will carve out his identity in the industry, separate from his father’s illustrious career. This curiosity is compounded by the anticipation of witnessing his directorial skills in action, as fans and critics alike speculate on the themes, style, and narrative techniques he will employ.”
He added, “Shah Rukh Khan’s involvement as a producer adds another layer of excitement to the project. Known for his keen eye for quality content and his ability to elevate a film’s profile, his participation ensures that the series will benefit from his vast experience and industry connections. This collaboration between father and son not only enhances the credibility of the project but also creates a powerful synergy that is likely to resonate with audiences. The star power of the Khan family, combined with Aryan’s fresh perspective as a new director, is poised to generate significant buzz and anticipation.”
Navigating stardom
While his family name offers certain advantages, it also comes with its own set of challenges. The pressure to live up to the ‘Khan’ legacy can be daunting. However, Aryan’s choice to focus on direction suggests a deliberate effort to establish his own identity within the industry. By bringing fresh talent to the forefront and exploring narratives that reflect the complexities of Bollywood, he appears to be charting a path distinct from his father’s.
Do star kids face a double-edged sword when it comes to debuting in Bollywood?
Girish Wankhede shared, “Star kids in Bollywood often navigate a complex landscape that can be likened to a double-edged sword. On one hand, they inherit immense expectations from the audience and industry insiders alike, which can create significant pressure to perform. The scrutiny is intense; every move they make is analyzed, and their successes and failures are magnified. This high-stakes environment can be daunting, as they must continually prove themselves worthy of their lineage and the spotlight that comes with it.”
He further said, “However, the advantages that accompany being a star kid are undeniable. One of the most significant benefits is access to resources. They often have the privilege of tapping into a vast network of industry contacts, including established filmmakers, producers, and actors who can provide mentorship and guidance. This access can open doors that might remain closed to newcomers without such connections, providing them with opportunities to work on high-quality projects from the outset.”
He added, “Moreover, star kids typically have the financial backing and support to invest in their craft, whether that means enrolling in prestigious acting schools, hiring top-notch coaches, or participating in workshops that refine their skills. This foundational training can enhance their performance and prepare them for the rigors of the industry, making them more competitive when they finally step into the spotlight.”
“The ability to curate their public image is another critical advantage. With the right projects and a strategic approach to branding, star kids can shape how they are perceived by the audience. By carefully selecting roles that align with their strengths and resonate with current trends, they can build a favorable reputation that attracts viewers and industry attention. Successful image-building can lead to a loyal fan base, which is essential for sustained success in the competitive world of Bollywood,” Wankhede noted.
However, director Gauri Shinde feels that all the advantages comes with triple the pressure. “And I’m sure he has had to work thrice as hard. It’s really refreshing that he has chosen this profession despite his dishy looks. I am really looking forward to his work, but until then— We need to stop the constant speculation about young people’s lives. Maybe we should all just back off,” she said.
India’s obsession with Aryan
India’s keen interest in Aryan Khan can be attributed to a blend of factors. His association with one of the country’s most beloved actors naturally garners attention. Additionally, his foray into direction offers a new dimension to the Khan legacy, providing audiences with a fresh narrative to follow. The combination of familial ties, personal choices, and professional endeavors makes Aryan a compelling figure in contemporary Bollywood discourse.
Gauri added, “This is just too much pressure for a first-time director. Any first-time director already has their own anxieties, apart from the massive responsibility of proving themselves. But unlike Aryan, most of them are safe from this microscopic scrutiny—at least until their film is released.”
Expectations vs. Reality
As the release of “The Ba***ds of Bollywood” approaches, the anticipation is palpable. While Aryan’s lineage sets high expectations, his unique approach to storytelling and commitment to bringing new talent to the screen may help him carve out his own space in the industry. Only time will tell how his debut will be received, but one thing is certain: Aryan Khan is poised to make a significant impact on Bollywood’s evolving landscape.
Wankhede noted, “Bollywood is at a pivotal moment, ripe for the infusion of new talent like Aryan Khan. The landscape of the film industry is rapidly evolving, driven by changing audience preferences, technological advancements, and a growing demand for diverse storytelling. This transformation creates an urgent need for fresh voices and innovative perspectives that can breathe new life into the cinematic experience.”
He stated, “As we witness a shift in the way stories are told—through both traditional films and the burgeoning realm of web series—there is an increasing appetite for narratives that resonate with contemporary audiences. New filmmakers bring with them unique insights and sensibilities that reflect the complexities of modern life. They are often more in tune with the aspirations, challenges, and cultural nuances of today’s viewers, which allows them to craft stories that are not only relevant but also deeply engaging.”
“Aryan Khan, as a new generation filmmaker, represents this wave of change. His upbringing in a family steeped in cinematic legacy provides him with a rich foundation, yet he also possesses the potential to carve out his own identity as a storyteller. With access to a wealth of resources and industry knowledge, he is well-positioned to explore innovative themes and narratives that resonate with both traditional Bollywood fans and a younger, more global audience,” Girish added.
He also shared that the integration of technology in filmmaking—such as advanced visual effects, virtual reality, and streaming platforms—opens up exciting avenues for storytelling. “New filmmakers are often more adept at leveraging these tools, allowing them to push creative boundaries and experiment with formats that were previously unimaginable. This not only enhances the viewing experience but also broadens the scope of what can be achieved in terms of storytelling,” he said.
Concluding note
Aryan Khan’s directorial debut is more than just a new release; it’s a testament to a young filmmaker’s journey to define his own legacy amidst towering expectations. As audiences, we can look forward to witnessing how he navigates this intricate dance between heritage and innovation.
