Actor Harshvardhan Rane has found himself at the center of online discussions following his recent statements about being an ‘outsider’ in the film industry. This year has been significant for Rane, with the re-release of his debut film ‘Sanam Teri Kasam’ achieving widespread popularity and becoming the highest-grossing re-released Indian film. Adding to his milestones, his new movie ‘Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat’, co-starring Sonam Bajwa, was released on Diwali, clashing with Ayushmann Khurrana and Rashmika Mandanna’s ‘Thamma’.
Instead of viewing this as a direct competition, Rane has encouraged fans to support both films, highlighting that both he and Khurrana are ‘outsiders’. In a viral video from a screening of ‘Ek Deewane Ki Deewaniyat’, Rane expressed, “You supported films of 2 outsiders this Diwali. Ayushmann Khurrana’s film is also out, mine is too. Please watch both films, enjoy both, because it sends a great message out that you guys, single-handedly, have ended nepotism in Bollywood.” While some fans resonated with his message, many online critics deemed it unnecessary.
The controversy escalated when a comment made by Rane, resharing a Reddit post, stated, “Please watch it ma’am, watch Thamma too, Ayushmann and I are both outsiders.” This comment has led to significant trolling, with users on Reddit critiquing his repeated use of the ‘outsider’ narrative. One netizen commented, “He’s embarrassing himself at this point… and dragged Ayushmann also… he’s a good actor… should let his work speak for itself.” Another user remarked, “There are so many outsiders in this industry and they have spoken about their struggle… but no one has whined like he is doing.” Others pointed out that success depends on the quality of work, not just an actor’s background.
Despite the mixed reactions, Rane is set to appear next in a romantic drama titled ‘Silaa’. The ongoing debate highlights the sensitive topic of nepotism and the challenges faced by actors who do not have industry connections in Bollywood.