Bollywood has seen countless stars rise and fade over the decades, but only a few have managed to remain relevant and powerful figures in the film industry. Among them, Sanjay Dutt stands tall as an actor whose journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. From being the “bad boy” of Bollywood to winning admiration as one of the most versatile performers, Sanjay’s career reflects both resilience and transformation.
In a recent episode of The Great Indian Kapil Show, Sanjay Dutt and his longtime friend Suniel Shetty made an appearance together. The episode wasn’t just full of humor and camaraderie but also offered candid insights into the Bollywood industry. During the conversation, Sanjay Dutt spoke openly about the insecurity he sees in today’s younger actors and why the culture of multi-starrer films has almost vanished.
The Golden Era of Multi-Starrer Films
Back in the 80s and 90s, Sanjay Dutt was part of an industry where multi-starrer films were the norm. From Khalnayak and Saajan to Kaante and Mission Kashmir, he worked alongside leading actors of his time. When Kapil Sharma asked why multi-starrers are rarely made now, both Sanjay and Suniel agreed it was due to a rise in insecurity among today’s stars.
According to Sanjay Dutt, he never experienced such ego battles in his time. He recalled working with legends like Dilip Kumar, Sanjeev Kumar, and Shammi Kapoor. Instead of insecurity, there was mutual respect and learning. He even mentioned that if co-stars swapped lines by mistake, it never became an issue because everyone believed the film’s success was the ultimate goal.
This attitude defined the era when actors collaborated, rather than competed, within the same project.
Sanjay Dutt’s Take on Insecurity in Today’s Actors
Sanjay Dutt pointed out that the new generation of actors often develops arrogance after delivering just one hit film. He believes that insecurity stems from a desire to overshadow others, rather than uplifting the project collectively. His exact words carried weight:
“With just one hit, new actors go crazy, but I challenge them to survive in this industry for 40 years.”
This statement reflects his confidence and highlights the importance of longevity in the film industry. Success in Bollywood, as Dutt emphasized, isn’t about instant stardom – it’s about consistency, humility, and adapting to change.
Suniel Shetty’s Tribute to Sanjay Dutt
During the show, Suniel Shetty shared how he found inspiration from Sanjay Dutt during his early career days. Suniel admitted that after his debut in Balwan, critics labeled him a “wooden actor” and suggested he return to his family business. Without formal acting training, Suniel felt lost at first.
However, he found hope in observing stars like Sanjay Dutt, Jackie Shroff, Govinda, and Sunny Deol. He said he learned acting by watching them closely, crediting Sanjay Dutt as one of his biggest influences. Suniel stressed that their era was built on team spirit and admiration, unlike the cutthroat insecurity he sees in the industry today.
The Virtual World and Its Impact on Actors
Both Sanjay Dutt and Suniel Shetty agreed that the rise of social media has amplified the pressure on new actors. Constant comparisons, online criticism, and fan wars create an environment where young actors feel insecure.
In their era, the audience’s judgment was largely limited to film reviews and word-of-mouth publicity. Today, however, every tweet, reel, or post can either make or break an actor’s confidence. According to Suniel, this “virtual fear” has left many new actors unable to collaborate openly with their peers.
Sanjay Dutt’s Career Longevity – A Benchmark for Others
When Sanjay Dutt talks about surviving 40 years in the film industry, it’s not just a statement – it’s his lived reality. He began his career in the early 1980s with Rocky and, despite personal struggles and controversies, has consistently reinvented himself.
- In the 80s, he earned a “bad boy” image with action-packed roles.
- The 90s saw him become a romantic hero in films like Saajan.
- His iconic role as Munna Bhai in the 2000s redefined his career, making him one of the most beloved actors in India.
- Even today, Sanjay Dutt continues to win applause with powerful roles in films like KGF: Chapter 2 and Shamshera.
This ability to evolve while staying relevant explains why Sanjay Dutt confidently challenges younger actors to match his endurance.
Why Insecurity Hurts the Industry
Sanjay Dutt emphasized that insecurity among new actors prevents the making of powerful ensemble films. In the past, multi-starrers like Hum, Khalnayak, Border, and Kaante became blockbusters because big stars shared screen space.
In contrast, modern actors often prefer solo projects where they can remain the central focus. This has reduced opportunities for grand collaborative films that audiences once loved. According to Dutt, humility and the ability to celebrate others’ success are essential for survival in Bollywood.
Lessons Young Actors Can Learn from Sanjay Dutt
1. Humility is Key
No matter how successful you are, Sanjay Dutt reminds us that arrogance is short-lived. True respect comes from humility.
2. Longevity Matters More Than Instant Stardom
Sanjay Dutt’s 40-year challenge is a reminder that surviving decades in Bollywood is far more rewarding than enjoying temporary fame.
3. Learn From Others
As Suniel Shetty pointed out, he learned by observing stars like Sanjay Dutt. Young actors should also focus on learning instead of competing.
4. Collaboration Brings Success
Instead of fearing other actors, embracing collaborations can create stronger films and win audience love.
Sanjay Dutt and Suniel Shetty – A Friendship That Inspires
The bond between Sanjay Dutt and Suniel Shetty is more than just professional – it’s personal. Over the years, they have stood by each other through thick and thin. Their friendship was evident on Kapil Sharma’s show, where they shared laughter, memories, and honest reflections.
This camaraderie also highlights a core point Sanjay made: Bollywood isn’t just about competition, it’s also about relationships. These relationships, when genuine, help actors endure the ups and downs of their careers.