Farah Khan opens up about financial insecurity and the nepotism debate in Bollywood

Filmmaker and choreographer Farah Khan opened up about her early financial struggles and why she understands the frustration many outsiders feel toward star kids in the film industry. In a recent conversation with Sania Mirza on the podcast Serving It Up with Sania, Farah reflected on her humble beginnings, financial insecurities, and perspective on privilege in Bollywood.

Farah Khan on her financial insecurities

When Sania asked if her difficult financial past shaped who she is today, Farah candidly said she still worries about money. She explained, “Till now, I’m insecure about money. For me, I need to be financially secure to relax — that’s the only insecurity I have. That drive to keep working is always there. I may not be actively directing, but I’m working harder than I did during my main career years. We saw our dad go from being very rich to very poor, and for several years, we lived hand to mouth.”

Farah has often spoken about her tough childhood — losing her father at a young age and growing up with her family in a single-room home. She began working early in life to help support her family, something that continues to influence her attitude toward work and money.

On outsiders’ frustration with star kids

Farah also addressed the resentment that many outsiders in Bollywood feel toward star kids, admitting she understands where that anger comes from. She said, “I can understand when people come from outside to Mumbai and have anger towards nepo babies. I can understand where that anger comes from, because they’re struggling to pay their rent every month. For them, the star kids’ struggles seem very frivolous.”

Reflecting on how success stories are perceived today, she added, “Nowadays, everyone wants a struggle story. Even those who haven’t really struggled are trying to create one out of something weird. But I’m happy that my kids won’t have one.”

Farah Khan’s journey in Bollywood

Farah’s determination and passion for dance helped her overcome her hardships. With no formal training and limited resources, she learned choreography by watching music videos and practising on her own.

Her big break came with the song ‘Pehla Nasha’ from Jo Jeeta Wohi Sikandar (1992), which brought her instant fame. She went on to choreograph several iconic Bollywood numbers, including ‘Ek Pal Ka Jeena’, ‘Sheila Ki Jawani’, and ‘Desi Girl’.

Not limiting herself to choreography, Farah made her directorial debut with Main Hoon Na (2004), starring Shah Rukh Khan. The film became a blockbuster, followed by hits like Om Shanti Om (2007) and Happy New Year (2014). Over the years, she has established herself as one of Bollywood’s most successful and versatile filmmakers.

Through her honesty and humor, Farah continues to inspire many — both within and outside the film industry — by showing that perseverance and passion can overcome even the toughest beginnings.

Also Read: Farah Khan visits Diana Penty’s 100-year-old Mumbai home, calls it ‘A piece of Mannat’

from Featured Movie News | Featured Bollywood News - Bollywood Hungama
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