Father-Son Duo Suniel and Ahan Shetty Share Unfiltered Views
The Bombay Times Lounge recently hosted a special conversation featuring two generations of the Shetty family. Suniel Shetty, the iconic action star known for his discipline and integrity, sat down with his son Ahan Shetty, a young actor carving his own path in today's competitive film industry.
From Border to Border 2: A Cinematic Legacy
Their discussion spanned multiple topics, moving from Suniel's classic film Border to Ahan's upcoming project Border 2. They explored the journey from fame to family values, addressing the ever-present nepotism debate with refreshing honesty.
Suniel Shetty expressed deep concern about how the industry treats failure. "In other fields, when you fall, you get up and start walking," he said. "Here, when you fall, the world looks at you, and they make you feel that you're nothing." He emphasized that Hindi film actors are often underestimated, noting they possess significant knowledge and intelligence.
The Social Media Divide and Unnecessary Comparisons
Ahan Shetty highlighted how social media has changed industry dynamics. "Today, people just react to what they see in a 2-3 second clip," he observed. "We're being put up against each other." He specifically mentioned comparisons with Ahaan Panday, stating there's no real competition between them.
"I know how hard he's worked," Ahan said about Panday. "We have our own careers. There is so much love and respect amongst each other, and that is what needs to come out. We're all one industry. Social media has created a divide, and that's why you don't see so much support for one another."
Defending Colleagues and Promoting Thoughtfulness
Suniel Shetty defended Varun Dhawan's performance in Border 2, which hasn't been released yet. "Has anybody seen the film? Nobody has seen the film," he pointed out. "Varun Dhawan will kill it in the film; he's outstanding. Varun is not playing himself; he is playing a decorated officer who's given his life for the country."
He criticized the ease with which people criticize others today. "I think we should think a little bit before we go out there and say these things. Today, it's very easy to trash someone and run them down."
The Nepotism Debate and Personal Focus
Ahan addressed the nepotism discussion directly. "The whole nepotism debate comes up a lot," he acknowledged. "I've always accepted it. My father is an actor, and I wanted to be an actor." He stressed the importance of staying focused despite external noise.
"I think it is important to stay focused on what you want to do and not let the noise around you affect you too much," Ahan explained. "I focus on giving my director and producer my 200 per cent."
Family Values Over Career Discussions
Suniel revealed how their family prioritizes character over career. "At home, we don't talk about careers at all, we talk about character," he shared. "It is about how you behave, whether it is Rahul, Athiya or Ahan."
He described his approach to relationships both within and outside the industry. "I am who I am, but my attitude depends on who you are. You treat me right, and I treat you like a god and a goddess. If you don't, then you don't even exist for me in a room."
Evaarah Brings the Family Closer
Ahan spoke warmly about how his niece Evaarah (Athiya Shetty's daughter) has united the family. "Right now, our world and all our conversations at home revolve around Evaarah," he said. "She's brought us closer, and we even went on a family trip together after 15 years."
He described Suniel's morning routine with his granddaughter. "Dad's mornings begin with Evaarah – playing with her, feeding her. In the evening, all of us get together at home with her. It's all about her."
Film Inspirations and Future Dreams
When asked which of his father's films he'd like to be part of, Ahan didn't hesitate. "I'd love to be a part of Hera Pheri; I love that franchise," he revealed. "Fortunately, I am part of Border 2, which was one of dad's films that I have always been inspired by."
The full episode of this candid conversation will soon be available on the Bombay Times YouTube channel, offering deeper insights into this remarkable father-son relationship that transcends their shared surname.
