Ahan Shetty Sets the Record Straight on Entourage Controversy
Breaking his prolonged silence, actor Ahan Shetty has finally addressed the swirling rumours that claimed he was removed from major film projects due to his extravagant entourage costs. The young actor, who made his debut with the 2021 film Tadap, directly contradicted reports suggesting his alleged 10-person entourage led to his ouster from Sajid Nadiadwala's upcoming project Sanki.
"None of That Was True": Ahan's Firm Denial
In a candid conversation with Hindustan Times, Ahan Shetty categorically denied all allegations surrounding his professional conduct. "I know there were articles written about me, saying that my entourage cost was high and that's why certain films didn't happen and none of that was true," the actor stated emphatically. He emphasized that while such rumours circulate widely, the people who matter in the industry - including his producers - were well aware of the reality.
The actor acknowledged that developing a thick skin is essential for survival in Bollywood's competitive environment. Showing remarkable maturity, Ahan expressed his readiness to face even worse rumours in the future, understanding that public opinion comes with the territory of being a celebrity.
The Personal Toll and Industry Challenges
Despite securing significant projects like the multi-starrer Border 2 and Shaad Ali's new film in the four years following his debut, Ahan confessed to battling intense self-doubt. The timing of his debut film Tadap's release during the pandemic lockdown period created additional challenges, with theatres operating at reduced capacity and several states closing cinemas entirely just days after the film's release.
"For the year after that, it was very up in the air in terms of the industry, films weren't working, people weren't going into the theatres," Ahan recalled, describing the uncertain period that followed his debut. The professional challenges were compounded by personal losses as he discovered who his true well-wishers were during both his highs and lows.
Suniel Shetty's Fiery Defence
The controversy had earlier drawn a strong reaction from Ahan's father, veteran actor Suniel Shetty, who accused certain Bollywood elements of conducting a negative PR campaign against his son. In an explosive statement to Zoom, Suniel claimed that people had paid substantial amounts to plant damaging stories about Ahan, specifically targeting the entourage narrative.
"They said that he has a 10-person entourage; people paid lots of money to get negative articles written about him," Suniel had alleged. He vehemently defended his son's character, highlighting their family values of financial prudence and professionalism. The senior Shetty even threatened to hold a press conference and name those responsible if the targeted negativity continued.
As Ahan Shetty prepares for his upcoming projects, including the highly anticipated Border 2 where he continues his father's legacy from the original 1997 war film, the young actor appears determined to let his work speak for itself while navigating the complexities of Bollywood with resilience and grace.
