Agastya Nanda’s film Ikkis has garnered widespread acclaim since its release. Vivaan Shah, who plays the important role of Captain Vijendra Malhotra—a close ally of Agastya’s character Arun Khaterpal—shared his thoughts in an exclusive interview with mid-day. He discussed the recognition he’s receiving post-Happy New Year, cherished memories with Shah Rukh Khan, and the challenges of being labeled a ‘nepo kid.’
Reflecting on the film’s success, Vivaan expressed, “Ikkis is my most significant release since Happy New Year and perhaps Bombay Velvet. It means a lot to my parents, Naseeruddin Shah and Ratna Pathak Shah, too.”
He highlighted his admiration for Agastya Nanda, praising his relentless commitment. “He poured his heart and soul into this film. Agastya is not just dedicated; he possesses a brilliant mind and vibrant intellect that truly inspired me. Interestingly, I was his age when I worked with his uncle, Abhishek Bachchan. It feels like life has come full circle. Working with him was a beautiful experience, and we formed a strong friendship, mirroring our characters’ connection on screen.”
Upon Ikkis’ release, a controversial disclaimer in the end credits sparked conversations, labeling Pakistan as an untrustworthy nation, with Brigadier K. M. Nisaar, played by Jaideep Ahlawat, being an exception. Vivaan commented, “This is a complex issue that I’m still grappling with. Our film aims to be humane and kind. I believe such matters require deeper understanding, and I’m not in a position to comment until I have more experience. Right now, I’m focused on finding my footing in this industry.”
Vivaan reminisced about how Happy New Year changed his life, stating, “It was a turning point. I was recognized everywhere, especially by kids. Being surrounded by stars like Abhishek, Boman Irani, Deepika Padukone, and Shah Rukh Khan was an honor.”
When asked about his cherished moments with King Khan, he beamed, “Shah Rukh’s kindness, humor, and dedication to his craft are remarkable. His ability to stay grounded despite his fame is, in essence, what makes him great.”
Addressing the topic of nepotism, Vivaan acknowledged the pressure that comes with being the son of renowned actors. “It’s a positive pressure that drives me to excel and make them proud. I’ve always perceived it this way.”
He also noted the challenges facing new actors today. “If I were starting out now, I would find it incredibly tough. Today’s young actors face a steeper uphill battle. In my time, if your film released, it had a guaranteed audience. Now, a debuting actor may not receive the same level of visibility.”
