Shah Rukh, Salman and Aamir are not delusional: Varun

Actor says veterans are open to change

For a snapshot of Bollywood's evolving identity, Varun Dhawan's recent interview offers more than just passing insight. The actor, in the midst of promoting his upcoming film Baby John, sat down with Ranveer Allahbadia on his podcast and made a case for greater diversity in the industry.

Varun spoke earnestly about the need for voices from beyond Mumbai and other metropolitan hubs. "It used to happen earlier, didn't it? Now why is it not happening?" he questioned, before reflecting on how the industry's shifting landscape has complicated access. "It's become a bit tough not only to enter the industry but also to decide whether one wants to become an actor or an influencer or be on OTT. There are too many options now."

He believes that Bollywood must embrace change, particularly when it comes to reinvention and the people steering its course. "We will all have to go ahead. People who are in the powerful positions right now, there is an age limit, those who have been doing the same thing for years. They are only at the helm. I am not sure if they recognise it but it is important to change with time. We all will have to do it or we'll lose relevance, including me," Varun admitted, with a candour rarely seen in industry veterans.

Still, the star acknowledged the challenge of staying adaptable. "It is difficult because you don't want to change," he admitted. He also touched on a common pitfall for rising actors: the influence of yes-men. However, he was quick to point out that Bollywood's biggest stars are anything but delusional. "The upcoming stars or the ones who are still aspiring have these circles, but those who are already on that stature, they don't have these people around them. Stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Aamir Khan, they are not delulu (delusional). They are aware of what's happening."

Baby John marks Varun's return to action after his 2015 hit Badlapur. The anticipation surrounding the film was already high, especially with Jawan's Atlee at the helm, but the stakes were raised even further when the team revealed that Salman Khan would be making a cameo towards the end. "Salman Khan has shot a solid mass scene," teased Atlee, heightening the buzz among fans.

In a recent conversation with Pinkvilla, Atlee opened up about how the cameo came to life. "It was just an initial discussion between me and Murad (Khetani) sir. I told him, 'Sir, towards the end, I need a cameo… should we ask Salman sir?' He said, 'Okay'. Next day, he calls me in the morning, and says, 'Salman has agreed to do a cameo.' I was shocked. I was like, 'I was just discussing with you, I don't have any such scene prepared for it. Let me work on it.'"

Atlee also shared how Salman's trust in the team was absolute. After agreeing to be part of the film, Salman didn't ask to hear the scene. "I asked Murad sir if we could meet Salman sir and share the scene with him… when we approached Salman sir for the same, he responded, 'It's you guys, why do I have to listen to the scene… I will do as you say.' I have never seen a superstar like that," Atlee said, his admiration clear.

The film, directed by Kalees and produced by Atlee, boasts an ensemble cast, including Wamiqa Gabbi and Keerthy Suresh, and is set to hit theatres on December 25.