At a time when star kids continue to enter Bollywood, South star Prithviraj Sukumaran reflects on a similar trend in Malayalam cinema. The son of late actor Sukumaran, he candidly admits his surname opened doors, but sustaining a career takes far more.

“You are very privileged and fortunate. The only reason I got my first film was because of my surname. I didn’t even have to audition. The director just chose me. But your surname will only get you your first film. From there on, it’s all up to you. Come Friday, you are going to be judged by a very just, judicious, merciless jury called the audience,” he says.

Despite his success, the actor, who made his Hindi film debut opposite Rani Mukerji in Aiyyaa, remains grounded about his journey.

“I am truly aware that this life and these opportunities are not coming my way because I’m the most deserving. There are hundreds of people more talented and deserving than me. But now that I have this, it’s up to me to value it and make the most of it,” he says.

Offering perspective to newcomers, including his Sarzameen co-actor, Ibrahim Ali Khan, he shares, “Some of the biggest stars have not been able to make their sons or daughters big stars. Why? Because at the box office, you will be judged regardless of who you are. The interest might begin because of your surname, but it won’t sustain you. The interest in Ibrahim might have started because he is Saif’s son, but eventually, what would matter is his talent and skills.”