One of the most popular fashion and lifestyle magazines, Vogue India unveiled its August issue recently. But this one is special because it launches a new “future star” on the cover – Suhana Khan, daughter of actor Shah Rukh Khan.
Now, the big deal about being on the cover of Vogue is that it basically means you’re a star. It’s a stamp of approval and an entry to stardom. Celebrities who are influential, relevant and have a body of work to show for are often seen on magazine covers. They are used as a primary selling point.
Getting a featured article and a cover in Vogue is no easy task. It has to be earned… and needless to say the new issue has reignited the infamous debate of nepotism in Bollywood once again.
“Star kids,” as they are often referred to, defend themselves and their struggles to get a break in the industry. And yes, they probably do have that added pressure to live up to their family’s legacy, but it isn’t nearly as difficult for them as it is for an outsider. Also, while they may be right in claiming that nepotism exists in every industry, it doesn’t make it right. Especially when there are genuinely (and obviously) more deserving artists who have worked hard to make a place for themselves in B-town.
In a recent interview, actress Alia Bhatt shared her views of the subject saying, “Of late, I have realized that there is no need to defend the nepotistic nature of the industry because it does exist. The reason why it has become an emotional debate is because it is difficult for those who don’t get a chance… If I was on the other side, I would be heartbroken. I may have felt the same way.”
Bhatt too faced criticism in the early stages of her career, but she has proved her mettle as an ace actor. The Raazi actor has a great body of work and experience to back her success and fame… exactly how it should be.
Another argument is that the parents have worked extremely hard so their kids don’t have to face the same struggles. But is that argument enough to be featured on the cover of a magazine such as Vogue India, which is a spot where readers are expected to idolize the “celebrity.”
Vogue India launched a cover with Jhanvi Kapoor for its June issue, before the release of her debut film, which again raised the same questions.
While it is interesting (and entertaining) to find out more about actors/celebrities, how does Vogue India choose a celebrity cover story? Does having an unfair advantage over people without a godparent or in this case, superstar parents suffice?
Let us know in the comments below.
