Filmmaker empathizes with outsiders’ struggles, recalls her own financial insecurity
Bollywood filmmaker and choreographer Farah Khan has addressed the ongoing debate around nepotism in the Hindi film industry, acknowledging the emotional and financial struggles that outsiders face compared to privileged star kids.
Speaking on Sania Mirza’s podcast, the 60-year-old director shared her candid views on the topic, saying she understands why newcomers often feel anger toward “nepo babies.”
“I can understand when people come from outside to Mumbai and have anger towards nepo babies,” Farah said. “They’re struggling to pay rent every month. For them, their (star kids’) struggles seem very frivolous.”
Her remarks reignited discussions about the industry’s double standards, where connections and lineage often determine access to opportunities — a subject that continues to divide audiences and artists alike.
“I’m still insecure about money,” says Farah
Farah also opened up about her lifelong financial insecurity, tracing it back to her family’s difficult past.
“Till now, I’m insecure about money,” she admitted. “We saw our dad go from being very rich to very poor. For several years, we lived hand to mouth. For me, I need to be financially secure to relax — that’s the only insecurity I have.”
The Main Hoon Na and Om Shanti Om director said that witnessing her father’s downfall continues to fuel her drive to work hard and remain financially stable, even after decades of success.
“Everyone wants a struggle story now”
Farah also commented on how “struggle stories” have become a kind of trend in Bollywood.
“These days, everyone wants to have a struggle story, even when there isn’t one,” she said with irony.
She added that she feels relieved her children won’t have to “pretend to have one”, emphasizing the importance of honesty about privilege in an industry where appearances often outweigh authenticity.
Beyond films: Farah’s evolving creative space
Married to filmmaker Shirish Kunder since 2004, Farah is the mother of triplets — Czar, Diva, and Anya — born in 2008 via IVF.
Beyond her film career, she has ventured into digital content creation, running a popular YouTube channel where she shares lighthearted cooking vlogs with her chef, Dilip, and celebrity friends. Known for her humor and warmth, Farah’s online presence reflects the same authenticity she champions in her work.
