Filmmaker Vivek Agnihotri has revealed that he recently had to fire the lead actor of his upcoming film due to issues with the actor’s manager. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Agnihotri shared his frustrations in response to a tweet by casting director Mukesh Chhabra, who expressed concerns about the state of the film industry.
Comments on the Current State of Bollywood
Mukesh Chhabra’s tweet read, “The current state of the film industry: one actor, 200 casting directors, and 15,680 managers.” The remark, hinting at the overwhelming presence of managers and intermediaries in Bollywood, resonated with Agnihotri, who promptly responded.
In his reply, Agnihotri disclosed, “I had to fire a lead actor last week because his manager was so arrogant and behaved as if he had the prerogative to be like this just because he is an employee of a ‘Huge Celeb’s’ Star Kid Talent Agency.’” He further criticised these middlemen, suggesting they’ve caused more harm than good, adding, “These middlemen have destroyed more careers than made it. Do a workshop and train these kids, @CastingChhabra.”
Agnihotri’s comment underscores his belief that the culture of entitlement and arrogance stemming from celebrity-backed agencies is negatively affecting the industry. His tweet also called for better training of managers and middlemen to prevent such issues.
Agnihotri’s Focus on Storytelling
In a recent interview with Hindustan Times, Vivek Agnihotri emphasized his focus on storytelling through his films, distancing himself from public debates and controversies. He stated, “I’m focusing on my movies rather than debating with people. That’s why I don’t go on TV these days. I don’t want to be part of public debate. If I have to make a point, I would rather make it with my films, writing, and books.”
Agnihotri stressed that he prefers his work to speak for itself, steering clear of what he termed as “demonising India.”
Upcoming Film: The Delhi Files
Agnihotri is currently working on his next project, The Delhi Files. Speaking with PTI, he revealed that the film would explore the violent history of undivided Bengal, including the Noakhali riots of 1946 and political figures like Mahatma Gandhi and Md Ali Jinnah. He defended his choice of subject, stating, “Let me choose my subject. Can’t I create awareness about the issue chosen by me?”
Agnihotri’s stance and storytelling remain controversial yet deeply personal, reflecting his commitment to narrating India’s lesser-known histories.
