Bollywood’s long-standing debate over nepotism continues as Naomika Saran, granddaughter of legendary actor Rajesh Khanna and veteran star Dimple Kapadia, gets ready to make her film debut.
Maddock Films has cast her opposite Vedang Raina in a romantic project. The production house seems to be following the familiar trend of launching star kids through established banners.
The Khanna legacy holds immense value in Hindi cinema, but the announcement has once again sparked discussions on the imbalance between insiders and aspiring newcomers in Bollywood.
After their success with Stree and Bhediya, Maddock Films now appears to be exploring safer territory with romance-driven stories backed by well-known surnames.
Vedang Raina, who has gained attention with his recent work, represents a fresh face in the evolving film landscape. His pairing with Naomika Saran could bring either exciting chemistry or reveal a gap in screen presence.
The timing feels intentional, as audiences are increasingly calling for merit-based casting and originality in Bollywood.
Still, Maddock Films has often shown a strong grasp of what modern viewers want, giving this project an edge. Whether Naomika Saran can live up to the weight of her celebrated lineage will only be known once the film goes on floors.
The real question remains: can she carve her own path and prove her talent beyond the shadow of her famous family?
