Bollywood actor Taapsee Pannu, known for her fierce independence and candid opinions, recently shared insights on nepotism in the film industry. In an interview with ANI, Pannu revealed a significant lesson she has learned from those often labeled as “nepo kids” in Bollywood. This reflection comes as she continues to navigate her career as an outsider, a status she embraces even after opening her production house, Outsider Films.
Pannu, who has carved a niche for herself in the industry without any familial connections, expressed her admiration for the unity she observes among those with industry ties. “It’s a different opinion from a lot of others,” Pannu stated. “One thing that is good about people who have parents, siblings, or any other family member in the industry—the so-called nepotism people—is how they stay together, stick together, and support each other. That’s something many of us outsiders don’t have to the same extent.”
She further elaborated on the competitive nature that often characterises relationships among industry outsiders. “We’re so used to struggling, hustling, and racing ahead of each other,” she said. While outsiders respect each other’s work, Pannu noted that they lack the unwavering support that industry insiders often extend to their peers, regardless of the success or failure of their projects. “That vibe of standing by each other, whether it’s a good film or a bad film, is more prevalent among the industry kids than among us outsiders,” she added.
Pannu also acknowledged the insecurities that can arise among outsiders due to this competitive mindset. “Sometimes, deep down inside, we end up feeling insecure about each other,” she admitted. In contrast, she praised the sense of unity she has observed among industry insiders, highlighting their willingness to recommend and support one another.
Pannu’s production house, Outsider Films, has already produced two films— Blurr (2022) and Dhak Dhak (2023). She was recently seen in Phir Aayi Haseen Dillruba and Khel Khel Mein, and will next appear in Woh Ladki Hai Kahaan.
