Bollywood actor Imran Khan recently got candid and shed light on why he decided to step away from the film industry. Known for roles in films like Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na, Delhi Belly, Mere Brother Ki Dulhan and more, Khan departed the entertainment world after the release of the Kangana Raanut co-starrer Katti Batti.
In a recent interview with Film Companion, Imran delved into the intricate ecosystem surrounding actors that comprises publicity, PR, and management. Khan stated he also observed a focus on monetary gain, with individuals prioritising earnings from films, endorsements, and public appearances, even mundane events like ribbon-cutting ceremonies. He added that over time, this monetary-centric outlook began to overshadow his intrinsic love for cinema.
Imran Khan on quitting Bollywood:
When asked if the failure of Katti Batti influenced his decision to quit Bollywood, Imran Khan said, “Yes. At that moment I didn’t consider it in that way and I never said, ‘Okay, on this day, I’m done, I quit.’ It was kind of a process of a week becoming a month, a month becoming three and becoming a year, and a year becoming two where I said, ‘Okay, I won’t do this because my heart’s not in it.’”
Despite being entrenched in this environment, Khan recognised that his passion for acting transcended financial motivations. Unafraid to explore uncharted paths, he expressed gratitude for the financial security afforded by his tenure in the film industry. With his material needs met, Khan could redirect his focus towards existential inquiries, contemplating his identity and the desired lifestyle. Khan exemplifies a commitment to personal growth and self-discovery.
The ‘Jaane Tu… Ya Jaane Na’ actor also said, “Effectively I spent my 20s, working and building and setting up a career. In my 30s, that ended up not being the thing that I felt like focusing on. Life took me in another direction. Effectively these past 10 years I have spent kind of grappling with the larger questions of who am I, what do I want to do, what do I want to be. A series of life circumstances led me to a place where I was not getting the fulfillment.” (sic)
Leave a Reply