At a recent press meet for his film Hari Hara Veera Mallu, popular Telugu actor and politician Pawan Kalyan shared his views on nepotism in the film industry. Pawan Kalyan clearly said that while having family connections may help one enter the industry, only talent can help someone survive and succeed.
“Being someone’s son or nephew might get you an entry pass,” Pawan explained, “but to stand out as a true hero, you need to choose the right stories and show your skills. Talent is the only thing that matters.” He also said this rule applies to everyone, even to his own son.
Pawan pointed out that the Telugu film industry doesn’t look at caste or religion. “It’s all about creativity here,” he said. “You may be Chiranjeevi’s brother, son, or relative—or even my son. That won’t matter if you don’t have the talent. You simply won’t last.”
These comments come at a time when fans are eagerly waiting for Pawan’s son, Akira Nandan, to make his debut in Tollywood. Many believe he is the only one who can fill his father’s shoes if Pawan stays focused on politics. Fans often say Akira already looks like a hero when he appears beside his father.
However, Akira’s mother, Renu Desai, earlier shared that he is currently more interested in music than acting. This has led to speculation. Some are now wondering if strong words of Pawan Kalyan on talent are a hint that Akira may not enter films at all—or if he’s simply waiting for the right time.
Whether Akira follows his father’s footsteps or chooses another path, one thing is clear: in Pawan Kalyan’s view, only true skill can turn someone into a lasting star in the Telugu film world.
