Mumbai, June 30
Actor-filmmaker Kunal Kemmu has opened up about whether being married into one of Indian cinema's most celebrated families, especially being legendary actress Sharmila Tagore's son-in-law ever made him feel pressured.
In an exclusive conversation with IANS, Kunal said he has never allowed the thought of being veteran actress Sharmila Tagore's son-in-law to influence his relationship with his craft and art.
Kunal shared that his primary focus has always been on evolving as an artist rather than worrying about external expectations.
"No, the relationship that I have with my craft or the artist within is the most important to me, and that's paramount. In the structure of that relationship, I have never thought about it, to be very honest with you. So, I would be lying if I say that I try. It doesn't stay in my mind." Kunal exclaimed.
The actor emphasized that his creative journey has always been guided by his passion for acting and filmmaking rather than the stature of the family he married into.
For the uninitiated, Kunal is married to actress Soha Ali Khan, the daughter of veteran actress Sharmila Tagore and the late cricket legend Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi. The couple tied the knot on January 25, 2015, after dating for many years.
The couple, who first met on the sets of the 2009 film 'Dhoondte Reh Jaaoge', welcomed their daughter, Inaaya Naumi Kemmu, in September 2017.
On the professional front, Kunal, having begun his career as a child actor, went on to establish himself with performances in films such as 'Kalyug', 'Traffic Signal', 'Golmaal 3', 'Go Goa Gone', 'Malang' and 'Lootcase'.
In 2024, he made his directorial debut with the critically acclaimed comedy-drama 'Madgaon Express', which earned praise for its writing and direction.
The actor has now ventured into the reality space as a host for the show, 'Alliance'.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Arre yaar, but let's be real - marrying into the Pataudi family does open doors. Just saying... But I respect that he doesn't let it define him. Kunal has always been underrated, loved him in 'Lootcase'!
Honestly, I think he's being genuine. Soha herself is very grounded despite her lineage, so makes sense they'd be a good match. Kunal has earned his place in the industry through sheer hard work. Madgaon Express was a gem!
It's easy to say "doesn't affect me" but in Bollywood's nepotism-filled environment, being Sharmila Tagore's son-in-law must have some weight. Still, I appreciate his attitude. More power to artists who prioritize passion over pressure! 🌟
Shah Rukh Khan once said "success is not about who you know but how you work" - Kunal seems to follow that philosophy. Loved his evolution from 'Kalyug' to directing. He's truly versatile! 👌
I wish more actors from film families had this mindset. Instead of relying on surnames, they should focus on their craft like Kunal. Glad to see a sensible perspective in an industry obsessed with lineage.
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