Neil Nitin Mukesh recently opened up about the ongoing debate surrounding nepotism in Bollywood. While acknowledging that his family background in the film industry played a role in his journey, he emphasized that talent is ultimately the key to success for any artist.
In a conversation with ANI, Neil shared his perspective on the topic, saying, “If nepotism had any real advantage, I would have been in a much different place today. In our field, so-called ‘nepo kids’ are often glorified, but that’s not always the case.” He added, “Just like a doctor’s son can become a doctor, the same applies to other professions. If my daughter chooses to pursue a career in acting or filmmaking, I’ll support her, but it’s up to her to carry the legacy forward. I can teach, but the art itself must come from within.”
Neil also reflected on the pressure that comes with being part of a legacy family. His grandfather, Mukesh, was a legendary singer, and his father, Nitin Mukesh, is a renowned playback singer in Bollywood. Despite his illustrious lineage, Neil shared that his love for acting has been the driving force behind his career. “Even though I’m part of a family with a rich musical background, my passion has always been acting,” he explained. “But I know that every film comes with its own set of challenges. Being the son of famous personalities adds another layer of pressure, as comparisons are inevitable.”
Highlighting the success stories of actors like Kartik Aaryan, Rajkummar Rao, and Vikrant Massey, who come from non-filmy backgrounds, Neil pointed out that talent, rather than family connections, is what defines an actor’s success. “These actors have proven themselves with their skills. It’s the same for me. Despite my family background, I’ve had to work hard to prove that a singer’s son can act. Even after two decades in the industry, I still feel the struggle with every new project, as I’m constantly working to earn my place.”
He went on to say that the notion of nepotism as a privilege is misleading. “If it were about being a ‘nepo kid,’ it would be easier, but that’s not the case,” Neil stated. “I consider every challenge a chance to prove myself as an actor.”
Neil Nitin Mukesh has had a significant career with roles in films like New York (2009), Prem Ratan Dhan Payo (2015), Golmaal Again (2017), and Saaho (2019). His most recent project, Hisaab Barabar, released earlier this year, tackled the theme of corruption.
Through his reflections, Neil has made it clear that while legacy plays a role, it is ultimately the artist’s talent and perseverance that define their success in the highly competitive world of Bollywood.
