Zoya Akhtar Defends Casting Star Kids in “The Archies” Amid Nepotism Discourse

Mumbai, India, December 09, 2023: Zoya Akhtar, the acclaimed director of “The Archies,” which premiered on Netflix, addressed the ongoing debate surrounding nepotism in Bollywood during a recent interview with The Juggernaut. The film features the debut of seven newcomers, including Suhana Khan, Khushi Kapoor, and Agastya Nanda from illustrious film families.

When questioned about the nepotism discourse, Akhtar expressed her perspective, stating, “I think the debate is about haves and have-nots. It is about privilege, access, and social capital. I completely understand having anger or frustration at the fact that you do not have the access some people get so easily. That is a conversation to be had. Everyone needs to have the same kind of education, job opportunities, et al.”

Akhtar emphasized the importance of discussing broader societal issues rather than targeting individual choices. “But when you turn around and say Suhana Khan shouldn’t be in my film, it’s banal because it’s not going to change your life whether she’s in my film or not. You have to talk about what is going to change your life,” she remarked.

Defending her right to pursue her passion and casting decisions, Zoya Akhtar shared her family background, saying, “My dad (Javed Akhtar) came from nowhere and made a life for himself. I was born and bred in the industry, and I have every right to follow whatever I want to do. As part of his network and what he made, I know those people. What am I going to do, disown my dad because I want to be a filmmaker? Are you saying I can’t choose my profession? It makes no sense.”

She continued, addressing the issue of nepotism, “Nepotism is when I take public money or someone else’s money and favor my friends and family. Nepotism cannot be when I take my own money! Who are you to tell me what to do with my money? It’s my money! If tomorrow I want to spend my money on my niece, it’s my problem! At the end of the day, if a director or an actor gets another job, it is solely on the audience. They decide if they want to see them or not.”

“The Archies,” a teen-musical film based on the American comic book series, not only introduces fresh faces but also delves into the challenges faced by aspiring talents in the industry. The film features Vedang Raina, Dot, Mihir Ahuja, and Yuvraj Menda alongside the star kids in key roles.