“Actor Should Stay an Actor,” Says Suneel Darshan Ahead of Andaaz 2 Release

Veteran filmmaker Suneel Darshan, known for his commercially successful films in the early 2000s, is once again making headlines — not just for his upcoming project Andaaz 2, but for his outspoken take on the current state of the Hindi film industry. During promotions for the sequel to his 2003 hit Andaaz, Darshan delivered a pointed critique of modern Bollywood practices, stating that actors overstepping into direction and creative control are contributing to the downfall of their own films.

 

“Till the time you don’t go out to check the monitor screen and have faith in the director, you will remain an actor,” Darshan remarked. “The moment you go behind the camera, you turn into the destroyer of your own film. Actor should stay an actor.” The comment appears to target the growing trend of actors taking on roles behind the scenes — influencing scripts, direction, and editing, sometimes at the cost of artistic cohesion.

 

This isn’t the first time Darshan has expressed discontent with the current trajectory of the industry. He recently criticized the influx of overseas-educated creatives into Bollywood, suggesting that formal education often lacks the cultural and emotional depth required for Indian storytelling.

 

Andaaz 2, set for release on August 8, 2025, marks Darshan’s return to the director’s chair and aims to revive the romantic drama formula he once mastered. The film introduces newcomers Aayush Kumar, Aakaisha, and Natasha Fernandez in lead roles. It also reunites the iconic musical team behind the original film, with Nadeem Shafi (of Nadeem–Shravan fame) composing the soundtrack and lyrics by Sameer Anjaan. Playback singers include industry favorites such as Shaan, Javed Ali, Palak Muchhal, Amit Mishra, and Asees Kaur.

 

While Andaaz 2 carries the legacy of a beloved romantic drama, Darshan’s firm stance on creative boundaries has reignited the debate about the role of actors in filmmaking — making both his film and his commentary ones to watch this August.

 

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