I do have privilege: Alia Bhatt talks nepotism, motherhood and more

Actor reflected on numerous transformative experiences

Renowned Indian star Alia Bhatt recently graced the cover of Harper's Bazaar Arabia, where she shared candid thoughts on various topics ranging from motherhood to success, cancel culture, and gender equality. The piece highlights Bhatt's empowered perspective and her ability to tackle diverse subjects with wisdom and honesty.

Describing Bhatt as India's most celebrated cinematic talent, the feature emphasises her remarkable achievements, including a major Hollywood debut and five Filmfare Awards. Despite her stature, the actor maintains a down-to-earth demeanour, effortlessly connecting with those around her during the shoot.

On motherhood

Bhatt reflected on the transformative experience of becoming a mother, describing it as the most significant milestone in her life. She revealed that motherhood has taught her patience and provided her with inner strength.

“2022 was the most momentous year of my life in terms of milestones," recalled the Gangubai Kathiawadi star. "But for me, every day of 2023 is surprising. Every day is a new day with my daughter, and every day is a new day experiencing a new gesture or a new expression. I keep saying the most important thing I’ve learned is patience."

She further continued, "I’ve always been a very impatient person, and if it’s possible, I became even more impatient over time. But I think having a baby and motherhood definitely gives you a sense of stillness, a sense of calm. I mean, it’s so highly demanding from the very beginning. It can be extremely overwhelming. But if you just go through it with patience, it really gives you a lot of inner strength.”

On Raha's name

Sharing the inclusive meanings behind her daughter's name, Bhatt expressed her delight in the diversity of its interpretations and affectionately calls her by various nicknames. “I just really enjoyed the fact that her name meant so many beautiful things in different languages," stated Bhatt. "It means peace in Arabic, it means joy in Swahili, it means path in Hindi."

"They all kind of feel like the same thing," the Highway star added. "We call her different nicknames, but I like calling her pumpkin and pudding and pumpkin latte and cappuccino. I call her the most random names sometimes. Anything that just sounds really cute goes with her.”

On gender disparity

Bhatt also highlighted the gender disparities in questioning, noting that women are often asked different and often more intrusive questions compared to men when it comes to career and family decisions. “You would never ask a man a question about whether having a baby at the peak of his career was a brave decision. I’m being asked, ‘Are you willing to cut your pace down because you’re having a family?’ But to me, that’s okay," stated the award-winning actor.

"Maybe after working for 10 years at a certain pace, I felt that, okay, maybe I can cut that down and be a mum. I feel like it was very much led by love. I’ve always been that person who just does things with love. Whatever decision I make, if it feels right, I’ll do it. But if it doesn’t feel right, you’ll always see me taking 16 steps back," continued the Student of The Year actor.

She further added, "I could be offered the biggest movie, the biggest team, but if it doesn’t feel right, I wouldn’t be able to take that step forward. So [having a baby] was just purely nominated by that. And I don’t even think there was a question. It was just a very happy, natural decision."

On cancel culture, knowledge, and moving on

Discussing cancel culture, Bhatt chose to remain silent on certain matters, focusing on leading with kindness and avoiding adding to the noise. She acknowledged the quick judgment prevalent in society but prefers to concentrate on the positive aspects and highlight the good happening in the world.

Bhatt emphasised the significance of self-knowledge while acknowledging the beauty in imperfection and rawness. She then encouraged individuals to seek stillness amidst distractions, advising that finding oneself is possible even in mundane moments.

Known for her ability to move on swiftly, Bhatt frequently advised her friends to let go of unnecessary burdens and discomfort. She stresses the importance of kindness, discipline, and punctuality in the professional realm, qualities she values above talent.

On nepotism

Acknowledging the privilege she possessed as a result of her family's involvement in the film industry, Bhatt recognised the ongoing conversation about nepotism and expressed her commitment to working hard and not taking her opportunities for granted. "The long and short of it is, I empathise. I understand that it’s possibly been easier for me to get through the door than maybe the next person," stated the actor.

Continuing, she said, "And I compare my dreams to another person’s dreams: no dream is bigger or smaller, or more intense. Everybody’s dreams are the same, everybody’s desire is the same. So I completely understand where that conversation comes from. The only thing I can say is that I acknowledge the fact that I have gotten that head start. I acknowledge the fact that I do have that privilege, which is why I give 100% every day and I never take my work for granted. The only thing I can do is keep my head down and keep working.”

On success, diverse portrayals, and being liked

When defining success, Bhatt challenged societal norms that revolve around wealth, fame, and material possessions. She believes true success lies in finding balance, peace of mind, and nurturing meaningful relationships. Bhatt shared her perspective on being liked versus being respected, noting that it is more important to be liked as respect does not guarantee universal admiration. She emphasised the significance of self-acceptance.

Having worked on films that spark important conversations, such as addressing domestic violence and family dynamics, Bhatt expressed enthusiasm about the portrayal of genuine female friendships in upcoming movies. She believes these films will provide a refreshing perspective and fill a void in the Indian film industry.

The article also mentioned Bhatt's Hollywood debut in the blockbuster action film Heart of Stone, releasing on Netflix in August. Despite her accomplishments - such as her recently being Gucci's first Indian ambassador - Bhatt remained humble and focused on personal growth and taking on new challenges.

Have something to add? Share it in the comments below