Abhishek Duhan says that while networking is important to survive in the industry, it is equally important to be a nice person whom people can trust. Abhishek Duhan says that your honesty and dedication is what gets you more work.
“Having good connections and references is valuable in the entertainment industry. However, it’s not just about attending events; it’s crucial to be a person who others genuinely like and trust. Building real, meaningful relationships is key for career opportunities. Focus on authenticity and trust-building. Moreover, knowing your craft, demonstrating value, and embodying qualities like dedication, passion, and punctuality enhance your chances of success in a competitive industry,” he says.
He adds, “While having connections can open doors, success in the film industry also depends on merit and luck. The key is when your hard work and preparation meet an opportunity. Genuine artists usually focus on their craft, and many directors actively seek out talented actors. For instance, directors like Hansal Mehta, Vishal Bhardwaj, Anurag Kashyap, and Vidhu Vinod Chopra have a history of discovering and promoting actors based on their talent rather than just connections.”
Talking about nepotism, he says, “I don’t believe nepotism is as prevalent in our industry as it may seem. The perception of nepotism is largely a construct that we’ve created. Just like if my father owns a Ferrari, I’d naturally drive it – it’s not about favouritism; it’s about the legacy built by their parents.”
He adds, “These individuals, who happen to be the sons or daughters of industry veterans, have inherited a lot more than just a famous name. Their parents worked hard to earn respect and carve out a space for themselves. Now, being their children, they face a unique set of challenges and scrutiny. Contrary to the assumption that they have it easy, they often endure more pressure and judgment. Consider someone from a small town entering the industry – they have more freedom initially. The spotlight isn’t on them, and they can navigate their journey without constant judgment. On the other hand, those with famous parentage have everything at stake; people have high expectations, and every move is scrutinised. They are under constant public scrutiny, facing criticism and trolling for even the slightest misstep.”
Talking about his own experiences, he says, “Having come from a small town myself, I realise that the freedom to explore without constant judgment is a luxury we enjoy. We can experiment and evolve without the weight of expectations. It’s only when we make a mark that people suddenly take notice.”
He adds, “In my personal experience, I haven’t encountered nepotism as a hindrance. Instead, I believe these individuals from film dynasties are working exceptionally hard, often facing more challenges and responsibilities than those from non-filmy backgrounds. It’s essential to recognise the efforts and struggles behind the glamorous facade.”
Things are unpredictable here, he says, adding, “In this industry, anyone can go from zero to hero, and that’s a beautiful and magical journey. It’s unique to India. I embrace the unpredictability, and I’m not worried about losing opportunities or facing major success. I focus on my craft and maintain a consistently happy mindset.”
