Renowned Bollywood filmmaker Anurag Kashyap recently stirred up a storm on social media with a candid post on his Instagram account. Known for his bold and unconventional approach to cinema, Kashyap didn’t mince words as he expressed his frustration with the challenges of nurturing newcomers in the industry.
In a lengthy note shared on Saturday, Kashyap announced a significant shift in his approach, declaring that he would no longer entertain meetings with aspiring talents for free. Citing past experiences of investing time and effort in mentoring newcomers only to be disappointed with the outcomes, Kashyap unveiled a new system of rates for consultations. According to his post, a 10-15 minute meeting would come at a price of 1 lac, while half an hour would cost 2 lacs, and a full hour would be billed at 5 lacs.
Emphasizing his stance, Kashyap asserted, “That’s the rate. I am tired of wasting time meeting people. If you really think you can afford it, call me or stay the fuck away. All paid in advance.” This bold declaration received mixed reactions from netizens, with some questioning the rationale behind charging for meetings, while others speculated whether Kashyap’s move was a reflection of favoritism toward the affluent.
Adding a personal touch to the discourse, Kashyap’s daughter Aaliyah Kashyap chimed in with a playful comment, indicating her intention to forward the post to individuals who regularly send her scripts for her father’s consideration.
Despite the polarizing reactions, Kashyap remains undeterred in his professional pursuits. He is poised to make his acting debut in Malayalam cinema with Aashiq Abu’s upcoming film, “Rifle Club.” Set to release during Onam 2024, the movie boasts an ensemble cast including Dileesh Pothan, Vani Viswanath, Vijayaraghavan, and others, promising another chapter in Kashyap’s illustrious career.
While Kashyap’s decision to monetize his time may have sparked debates, it underscores the evolving dynamics of mentorship and collaboration in the entertainment industry, where navigating the balance between artistic vision and commercial viability remains a perennial challenge.