Of course, nepotism is there, says Aayush Sharma
For Aayush Sharma, making his acting debut in a film produced by actor Salman Khan might be the dream launch, but it also triggers yet another nepotism debate for he is married to Salman’s sister, Arpita. So, what’s Aayush’s take?
“I won’t say nepotism doesn’t exist. Of course, it’s there and there are no two ways about it,” says the debutant, adding, “There are talented people [from non-filmi backgrounds] out there, who have worked very hard, been in the industry for the longest time, and are better looking. So, I am lucky to get this opportunity. And I’ll not run away with it and say I deserve this opportunity or say I’m so talented and that’s the reason why Salman bhai gave me this film. No, it’s not that.”
Not shying away from the fact that he got LoveYatri only because of Salman, Aayush goes on to add that he was trained and prepared well for this project. “I can only say I’m lucky to have him [Salman] as a mentor, to have him in my life guiding me and always making sure that I’m on the right path and also, for having faith in me. This is a huge platform and I never thought I’d ever get something like this and even at this point, I don’t really think I deserve it,” says the actor, hoping that he doesn’t let Salman down.
Since Arpita belongs to a film family and has seen her brothers act and father direct films, did she have any advice to Aayush? “She told me to work hard. She said, ‘What’s in your hand is to give your 100% and having no regrets’. Also, she strongly feels that the success of the film is eventually decided by audiences,” shares Aayush, who tied the knot with Arpita four years ago.
Asked if he ever felt as the odd one out during celebrity gatherings at Salman’s house, he says, “I feel very comfortable in family settings. I love the family get together at Galaxy (Salman’s home). But, if we have to go out, I feel a bit out of place still. I am yet to learn the art of small talk.”