Bollywood actors Arbaaz Khan and Sohail Khan recently opened up on the debate of nepotism. Sons of renowned screenwriter Salim Khan, Arbaaz, and Sohail said that attributing an actor’s success solely to their family background is unjust.
Arbaaz remarked that opportunities often arise when your father is associated with a particular profession, as is the case in any field. During an interview on Timeout With Ankit, both brothers, who haven’t achieved the same level of success as their elder brother Salman Khan, acknowledged the challenges faced by individuals with Bollywood connections.
“If your father is a doctor or a lawyer, you have access to contacts in those fields. Similarly, being part of a film family allowed us to network within the industry. While meeting people became easier, it didn’t guarantee work,” Arbaaz said.
He further added that despite having a Bollywood background, sustained success over a 25-year career cannot be ensured. He said that while it might offer initial opportunities, it doesn’t guarantee long-term success. “Sohail and I may not have achieved the same level of success as other superstars or Salman Khan, but we are still active in the industry. No one receives special treatment,” Arbaaz said.
The actor also discussed the reality of Bollywood, where commercial success drives decisions. He highlighted that regardless of one’s connections, audience reception ultimately determines an actor’s fate. He also pointed out instances where celebrity offspring haven’t achieved stardom despite their family’s stature in the industry.
Regarding the next generation of the Khan family, Arhaan and Nirvaan Khan, Arbaaz revealed that they are currently preparing themselves for their careers. Arhaan is the son of Arbaaz and his ex-wife Malaika Arora, while Nirvaan is Sohail’s son with his estranged wife Seema Sajdeh. Sohail added that Nirvaan has completed his studies at UCLA and plans to assist a director in Mumbai before pursuing his own career.