I refused to take my father’s help: Karan Hariharan

It is often assumed that star kids would like to work in the same profession as their parents. However, popular singer Hariharan’s (right) son, Karan Hariharan (left), chose to become an actor. After making his Bollywood debut recently, he says that he understands that it is “natural” for people to ask him why he chose this profession. When asked about his father’s reaction to his decision, Karan says, “I’m so blessed to have such a supportive family. As soon as I told my mum and dad that I wanted to be an actor, they were like, ‘Okay, that’s fine’.”

But, wouldn’t a career in music have been easier considering his background? “My journey would have been equally difficult had I chosen music. The music and film industries are equally challenging. Besides, it is about the medium, not the family that you hail from,” says the actor.

Karan adds that though acting is his calling, he isn’t oblivious to his musical background. He says, “I’m extremely proud of where I come from. When my father offered to help me out (with his career), I refused to take his help. I told him not to get me wrong, but that I wanted to do things my way. Anything that is given to you can be taken away.”

Lately, many Bollywood actors such as Alia Bhatt, Shraddha Kapoor and Sonakshi Sinha have lent their voices for songs in films. Does this take opportunities away from playback singers? “Not at all,” says Karan. “Playback singers are trained. They always have an edge over those who aren’t. It’s all about artistes receiving equal opportunities.”