EXCLUSIVE: Taran Adarsh lauds Ranbir Kapoor and Kartik Aaryan’s potential to become stars; urges Mumbai filmmakers to focus on “Desi entertainment”

In an exclusive interview with Bollywood Hungama, veteran film critic Taran Adarsh offered his perspective on the current crop of Bollywood stars and their potential to achieve lasting stardom. Adarsh, known for his candid views, shared his thoughts on Ranbir Kapoor, Kartik Aaryan, and the factors shaping Bollywood’s trajectory in the face of competition from South Indian cinema.

Ranbir Kapoor: A Star with Potential, but Consistency Needed When asked about actors with the potential to become the next big stars, Taran Adarsh singled out Ranbir Kapoor. However, he didn’t shy away from critiquing Kapoor’s film choices.

“My only request to Ranbir Kapoor is that he should not do subpar films like Jagga Jasoos. Such horrible films will leave a stain on his filmography,” Adarsh stated. Translating his remarks, he said, “The hard work he has put in and the position he has reached today will be undermined by films like these. It’s better if he chooses projects that resonate with the masses and the audience.”

Adarsh explained the importance of connecting with viewers, highlighting that films are ultimately made for the audience. He added, “Who are you making films for? You’re making them for the audience. Ranbir needs to focus on films that take him to the masses, not those that pull him back.” Kartik Aaryan: A Star on the Rise Adarsh also acknowledged Kartik Aaryan’s growing appeal, particularly with his performance in Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. “Kartik has taken a step forward and reached out to the masses with Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3. He’s on the right track, but consistency is key,” he said. The Importance of Desi Entertainment Taran Adarsh didn’t hold back in analyzing Bollywood’s struggles in comparison to South Indian cinema. He argued that Bollywood has often strayed from its roots, opting for experimental storytelling that doesn’t always resonate with the Indian audience.

“South Indian cinema is scoring because it gives us our desi entertainment. I prefer desi food. If you give me French, Italian, or Spanish cuisine, it won’t go down well with me,” Adarsh remarked. He continued, “Our Mumbai filmmakers need to understand this. Desi entertainment has always worked and will continue to do so. This is India, and we will watch the kind of films we enjoy—authentic Indian cinema.”

A Call for Audience-Centric Cinema In his closing thoughts, Adarsh spoke about the importance of creating films that cater to Indian sensibilities. “Most of the audience prefers Indian films, desi films. That’s where Bollywood must focus if it wants to reclaim its dominance.”

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