Vinay MR Mishra (HINDUSTAN TIMES; March 6, 2022)

Having been in showbiz for almost 35 years now, actor Kishori Shahane admits she is content with her work, however, she has one resentment.  

“Back in the day, my husband, (film director) Deepak Balraj, gave a break to several newcomers including actors and singers,” Shahane says, while mentioning names like “Baba Sehgal, Ronit Roy, Ali Asgar”. She adds, “We gave them a platform. But today, it has become so tough to make a career in Bollywood.”

Shahane has been part of Hindi and Marathi films as well as is a regular on television, having made her mark with shows such as Shakti - Astitva Ke Ehsaas Ki, and Rishta Likhenge Hum Naya.

Shahane’s bone of contention is that her son Bobby Vij, 25, is not getting the much-needed break in film which she thinks he deserves. “We feel that Bobby should be recognized and given a good chance. If I have given decades of my life to the industry, Deepak ji has given decades of his, our son should get the platform at least,” she says, adding she doesn’t “understand the word nepotism”.

“We are quite sure of his talent. He is such an all-rounder. Whoever he talks to, finds him interesting, they talk for hours but kahi na kahi baat ruk jaati hai. Talent pe do, but chance toh do. So I wonder why is he not getting the break that he deserves?” she laments. 

Shahane’s son is currently auditioning and is making the most of social media to get recognition. Despite her good contacts, the actor is yet to introduce her son to biggies of the industry. “I haven’t taken Bobby to anyone yet. But I will soon start introducing him to everyone. We should have a good time to discuss (these things) with people. I’m not bitter about any of it, but yeah there is a bit of a grudge. Iss industry ke bacche hai toh wo aane chahiye,” she ends.