Bollywood has always been a battlefield for outsiders. In an industry where connections often outweigh talent, it’s no secret that star kids have a much smoother ride to fame. While insiders get big launches and a safety net of industry support, outsiders have to claw their way up, battling scepticism and bias at every step.
Yet, every now and then, someone comes along and proves that determination, talent, and hard work can topple even the most powerful camps in the industry. Enter Kartik Aaryan – a true underdog who’s been making waves and smashing stereotypes ever since he stepped into Bollywood.
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2024 has been nothing short of phenomenal for Kartik. He received rave reviews for Chandu Champion and then delivered a box office superhit with Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. But success doesn’t mean the struggles are over for him. In a recent interview, the actor opened up about his reality as an outsider in the industry.
“I’m a lone warrior. This house that you see today—I bought it with my own money. I’ve fought like crazy to reach here. And it’s not done yet—I know for a fact that I won’t get any industry support for the road ahead. And I’ve come to terms with the fact that despite delivering a monster hit in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3, nobody will rally behind me. I still have to hustle for my next film,” Hindustan Times quoted him saying.
Despite the odds stacked against him, Kartik Aaryan has built a career that most can only dream of. From being the monologue king of Pyaar Ka Punchnama to delivering blockbuster hits and headlining major films, he’s shown the world that an outsider can not only survive but thrive in Bollywood. However, with this comes the evil eye – people waiting for him to fail.
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“There are some wonderful people I’ve met over my journey, but the main section—and it’s a large section—I will never win over. And I don’t have any desire to win them over. The only people I want to win over are my audience. Because they’re the only ones supporting me. That’s the only validation I need,” he said.
Kartik’s journey serves as an inspiration for all dreamers who dare to step into the Bollywood arena without a godfather or industry backing. He is here to stay, and shine!