The year 2025 proved to be a rollercoaster ride for the newest generation of Bollywood star kids. While some soared to impressive heights with successful debuts and directorial ventures, others faced the harsh reality of box office setbacks and critical reception. The year was marked by bold career choices, viral sensations, and the constant scrutiny that comes with famous last names.
Directorial Debuts and Box Office Triumphs
Aryan Khan, choosing a path less travelled, decided to step behind the camera instead of in front of it. His debut Netflix series, ‘The Ba***ds of Bollywood’, became a sensational hit. Lauded for its sharp wit, insider take on the film industry, and compelling characters, the show established Aryan not just as Shah Rukh Khan's son, but as a promising director with a distinct narrative voice and a keen understanding of audience appeal.
Another major success story of the year was Ahaan Panday. Starring in Mohit Suri's film ‘Saiyaara’, he emerged as 2025's top breakout star. The movie ranked among the year's biggest commercial successes. Ahaan's performance and his palpable chemistry with co-star Aneet Padda won over audiences, making the film's emotional story and catchy songs a favourite, particularly among younger viewers.
Viral Fame and Mixed Fortunes
For Rasha Thadani, her debut year will be remembered for one electrifying moment. While her film ‘Azaad’ received mixed reviews and underperformed commercially, the dance track ‘Uyi Amma’ from the movie exploded on social media. Her energetic performance and undeniable screen presence in the song sparked a massive online trend, with countless fans and creators putting their own spin on the clip. The viral fame ensured Rasha's launch left a lasting impression, despite the film's fate.
The journey for Ibrahim Ali Khan began with the teen rom-com ‘Nadaaniyan’, which premiered on Netflix on March 7, 2025. Despite the immense curiosity surrounding his launch, produced by Karan Johar's Dharmatic Entertainment and co-starring Khushi Kapoor, the film was met with mixed-to-negative reviews. Critics pointed to a weak script and the performances of the newcomers. Later in the year, he appeared in the JioHotstar action drama ‘Sarzameen’, sharing screen space with Kajol and Prithviraj Sukumaran.
The Tough Road to Stardom
Shanaya Kapoor's much-anticipated debut finally happened with ‘Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan’. However, the film failed to connect with audiences, resulting in disappointing box office numbers and tepid reviews. Shanaya herself addressed the challenging experience, acknowledging the hard work involved and accepting that her big launch did not achieve the desired impact, showcasing a mature perspective on the unpredictable nature of the film industry.
In summary, 2025 highlighted that lineage guarantees attention, but not automatic success. The new generation navigated their paths with varying results, proving that talent, choice of project, and sometimes, a single viral moment, define their individual journeys in the competitive world of Bollywood.
