Siddhant Chaturvedi Sets the Record Straight About His Role in Ananya Panday’s Career Evolution
In a recent interview with ETimes, actor Siddhant Chaturvedi offered a clear response to filmmaker Anurag Kashyap’s assertion that his now-viral comment on nepotism contributed to Ananya Panday’s artistic growth. Siddhant Chaturvedi clarifies Ananya Panday growth was not influenced by him, despite public opinion shaped by their 2020 roundtable conversation.
He respectfully denied any involvement in her evolution, instead crediting her personal resilience, hard work, and talent. “She is a strong, talented girl and deserves full credit,” he said, reinforcing that she’s grown through her own merit.
Anurag Kashyap Attributes Ananya Panday’s Growth to Viral ‘Struggle’ Comment, Sparking Industry ConversationsRecently, Anurag Kashyap publicly reflected on Ananya Panday’s recent performances and personal growth. He stated that her approach to acting and script choices changed after Siddhant’s sharp remark at the 2020 roundtable discussion on nepotism. That comment—“Jahaan humare sapne poore hote hain, wahi inka struggle shuru hota hai”—translated as “Where our dreams come true, their struggle begins,” resonated widely and created waves across social platforms.
According to Kashyap, the statement prompted Ananya to introspect deeply. Since then, she’s taken on layered characters, moving beyond the glamour and comfort zone often associated with star kids. From Gehraiyaan to Kho Gaye Hum Kahan and CTRL, her choices have been bold and intentional. However, Siddhant Chaturvedi clarifies Ananya Panday growth didn’t result from external critique, but her own commitment to growth.
Siddhant and Ananya’s Collaborations Showcase Mutual Chemistry and Creative Growth in Recent Films
The pair have worked together in two films—Shakun Batra’s Gehraiyaan and the coming-of-age drama Kho Gaye Hum Kahan. Siddhant spoke highly of their on-screen rapport and behind-the-scenes camaraderie. According to him, every project they’ve shared has brought out the best in both. “We’re each other’s lucky charm,” he said.
However, despite their successful partnership, Siddhant Chaturvedi clarifies Ananya Panday growth didn’t arise because of his presence or commentary. He believes every actor carves their own journey, driven by talent and opportunity, not by comparisons or controversy. He added, “Either you are an actor or you’re not. She’s always been one.”
Revisiting the 2020 Roundtable: The Comment That Sparked a Nepotism Debate and Online Frenzy
Back in 2020, during a Film Companion roundtable of young Bollywood talents, Ananya Panday spoke about the challenges faced by star kids, referencing her father not attending big award shows or being on Koffee with Karan. Siddhant’s concise and sharp interjection stood out and quickly went viral:
“Jahaan humare sapne poore hote hain, wahi inka struggle shuru hota hai.”
That one line positioned Siddhant as a representative of the ‘outsiders’ in the nepotism debate. Public response was immediate, ranging from praise to trolling. Despite that, Siddhant Chaturvedi clarifies Ananya Panday growth didn’t result from any backlash or spotlight on that moment. He later shared that the response to the comment taught him to be cautious about how he expresses opinions in public.
Ananya Panday’s Self-Awareness and Script Selection Have Evolved Since the Viral Controversy
According to Kashyap and other industry observers, Ananya Panday has grown significantly as a performer since that 2020 controversy. In Gehraiyaan, she portrayed a woman torn between personal emotions and modern-day dilemmas. In Kho Gaye Hum Kahan, she explored friendship and self-worth. Her most recent role in CTRL shows an even deeper level of introspection.
These performances suggest conscious evolution and artistic risk-taking. However, as Siddhant Chaturvedi clarifies Ananya Panday growth is due to her own ambition and maturity, he remains firm in refusing undue credit. “She got opportunities and she excelled,” he repeated, distancing himself from any implication that he sparked her transformation.
Upcoming Film ‘Dhadak 2’ Marks a New Chapter for Siddhant Chaturvedi with Triptii Dimri
Meanwhile, Siddhant gears up for Dhadak 2, directed by Shazia Iqbal and produced by Dharma Productions. Starring alongside Triptii Dimri, the film departs from the original Dhadak, introducing a brand-new story set in a socially tense environment.
This time, the focus is on class divide, love, and rebellion. As fans await the August 1 release, Siddhant continues to build his reputation as a versatile actor who combines strong choices with meaningful commentary. Though Siddhant Chaturvedi clarifies Ananya Panday growth isn’t linked to him, he remains part of the ongoing discourse around talent, struggle, and legacy in Bollywood.
Growth Is Earned, Not Given—Siddhant Credits Ananya, Not Himself
Despite the public linking of his “struggle” comment to her artistic transformation, Siddhant Chaturvedi clarifies Ananya Panday growth is her own doing. He acknowledges her courage to grow, evolve, and explore, but stresses that only she can be credited for her journey.
By separating perception from reality, Siddhant offers a mature stance on the sensitive subject of nepotism. He highlights the value of individual effort, professional integrity, and mutual respect. For audiences, his remarks reinforce a simple truth—every actor walks their own path.
