Shekhar Suman has shared his perspective on the ongoing debate about actors, visibility, and social media fame, while praising Akshaye Khanna's performance in the film 'Dhurandhar'. As the movie garners attention, Suman stated that actors should trust their craft instead of chasing likes, paparazzi attention, or an online presence.
Shekhar Suman on Actors Chasing Visibility
Speaking to India Today, Shekhar Suman remarked that today's industry places excessive importance on being seen. He noted that many actors measure their worth through social media reactions, which can deeply affect their mental state.
"There is far too much emphasis on only being seen around, and likes, and being seen and being appreciated. They get depressed if they do not get as many likes as they had imagined. That kind of thing. You believe in your talent, believe in your craft, and the rest, everything is going to follow," Suman said.
He added, "And for actors, it is not important to be seen around on social media. I do not think so. Your work should speak for itself. When people see you on screen, they will remember you for years."
Akshaye Khanna's Example
Suman then pointed to Akshaye Khanna's return to the spotlight through 'Dhurandhar'. He said, "Akshaye Khanna, for 10 years, was nowhere. No partying, no social media, no nothing. One performance and that is it. He decimated all those notions about being seen."
Suman emphasized that a strong performance carries more weight than online activity. "I strongly believe that one strong performance is equivalent to so many of your reels that you made, and so many times that you were papped," he said.
Opportunity and Talent
He also stressed that talent requires the right opportunity. Citing Amitabh Bachchan's rise after early setbacks, he said, "It is the opportunity that you get that makes an actor what he is. So I feel all actors are the same. It is the opportunities that differ."
Praise for 'Dhurandhar' and Rakesh Bedi
Suman also praised Rakesh Bedi's role in 'Dhurandhar'. He recalled Bedi telling him, "Sheku, you have to watch this film, 'Dhurandhar', which I have done. You will really love me. It is a great film."
Suman said the role surprised him and credited the director, script, and character for giving Bedi room to perform. He also praised Aditya Dhar's direction, the editing, cinematography, and background score. He noted that the film kept viewers engaged despite its length, adding that audiences were "sitting on the edge of their seats."
