Meezaan Jafri Discusses the Unique Challenges Faced by Star Kids

Post by : Mina Rahman

Meezaan Jafri, the son of the renowned actor Jaaved Jaaferi, recently shared his thoughts on the misconceptions about star kids in Bollywood. He pointed out that many believe these children enjoy a straightforward entry into the film industry, but the truth is often more intricate.

“There’s a belief that star kids have it made. That’s not entirely true,” Meezaan remarked. “While advantages like early opportunities exist, they come with substantial pressures and expectations. Sometimes, it's more advantageous for someone without that legacy, as they can start fresh and unburdened by the weight of expectations.”

He insisted that every actor, regardless of their background, encounters personal struggles. “Every individual has their strengths and weaknesses. Each journey is unique. Instead of making comparisons, we should recognize that each person faces challenges at multiple stages,” he further elaborated.

Meezaan also addressed the prevalence of cliques within the industry, mentioning how talent agencies often align with certain production houses, creating specific dynamics that offer both opportunities and hurdles for newcomers, whether they are star kids or not.

Before stepping into acting, Meezaan honed his skills as an assistant director for Sanjay Leela Bhansali on films like Bajirao Mastani and Padmaavat. He made his acting debut in Bhansali's production Malaal, co-starring with Sharmin Sehgal. Despite its box office performance, Meezaan has been focused on defining his place in Bollywood with roles in Hungama 2, Yaariyan 2, and The Miranda Brothers.

Currently, he is garnering attention for his performance in De De Pyaar De 2, directed by Anshul Sharma and produced by T-Series Films and Luv Films. The romantic comedy-drama features prominent actors like Ajay Devgn, Rakul Preet Singh, and R. Madhavan. While critics have given it mixed reviews, the film’s commercial success has seen it earn ₹61.85 crore in domestic earnings.

Meezaan’s insights underscore that being a star kid does not automatically equate to success, as the industry is rife with pressures, expectations, and challenges. His honest reflections provide a deeper understanding of the realities faced by actors in Bollywood, regardless of their heritage.