Bollywood is set to welcome a fresh face on the silver screen with the upcoming feel-good film, Binny and Family. The film stars Anjini Dhawan, who is not only excited but deeply appreciative of the memorable experiences encountered during her journey. This journey, however, has not been as straightforward or privileged as many might assume given her star-kid status.
Anjini is the niece of popular Bollywood actor Varun Dhawan, a connection that undeniably provides her with some level of access within the film industry. Despite the perceived advantages this relationship might offer, Anjini insists that her path has been paved with hurdles, auditions, and even rejections before securing her place in Binny and Family.
Opening up about her experiences on set, Anjini expressed particular gratitude towards veteran actor Pankaj Kapur, whose presence initially made her nervous. “I was nervous about shooting with him,” she confesses. “But Pankaj-ji made me so comfortable. He told me, ‘It’s my job to give you cues. So whenever you want them, just ask for it.’ His cues are also as good as his performance.” Such encouragement was significant for Anjini, especially while working on a film that revolves around the complex dynamics of three generations within a family. The film also stars the seasoned Himani Shivpuri and Rajesh Kumar, making it a highly anticipated directorial venture by Ssanjay Tripaathy.
Closer to home, Anjini relies on the guidance and consistent advice from her uncle, actor Varun Dhawan. She shares, “The consistent advice that he has given me is to be honest and confident.” This advice seems straightforward but holds immense value, particularly in an industry where the debate over nepotism is ongoing and often relentless. Anjini is quick to acknowledge these industry dynamics and is thankful for the support system she has. “Today, if I’m confused about something, I can pick up the phone on someone experienced. I’m grateful for that.
. I know not everyone can get that guidance,” she explains.
However, she makes it clear that guidance and support do not translate to guaranteed success or effortless opportunities. “Nobody can hold my hand and take me through my journey. It’s ultimately about how the audience receives my performance. Being related to someone is not a reason for people to like you. I’ve never been offered a script without an audition, and there have been rejections too,” she asserts.
Anjini is profoundly aware of the difficulties faced by outsiders trying to break into the film industry. She candidly acknowledges that while star kids might get multiple chances despite initial setbacks, the opportunities are often harder to come by for those without industry connections. “To some extent, star kids get chances even if the audience rejects them because they have someone backing them. But no one has ever offered me a film just because I am Varun’s niece. Even for Binny and Family, the director had seen an old audition of mine,” she clarifies.
Her account offers a nuanced take on the issue of nepotism. While acknowledging the privileges that come with being part of a film family, she stresses that these advantages do not eliminate the challenges or reduce the need for genuine talent and effort. Anjini is determined to let her work speak for itself. She emphasizes that the responsibility is on her to win the audience’s hearts and secure her position in the industry based on merit.
As she takes her first step into Bollywood with Binny and Family, Anjini hopes to create a lasting impression. Her humble recognition of the support she has received, coupled with her awareness of the hard work and rejection she has faced, paints a realistic picture of the industry.
In a world where the buzz around star kids and their ‘advantages’ often steals the spotlight, Anjini Dhawan’s honest reflections provide a refreshing perspective. She stands as a testament to the fact that while the journey might start with a little help, it is talent, perseverance, and the audience’s approval that ultimately pave the way for long-term success in Bollywood.
