Dharma Productions is preparing to launch two new actors into the Bollywood industry. The production house, led by Karan Johar, announced these newcomers were selected from over 500 auditions. This move appears to be a strategic effort to address long-standing accusations of nepotism against the company.
Film critic Taran Adarsh shared the news on X (formerly Twitter). Adarsh highlighted that the chosen individuals, a male and a female, are “completely outsiders” with “no industry background.” They were selected purely for their raw talent.
BIGGG DEVELOPMENT… DHARMA PRODUCTIONS TO LAUNCH TWO NEWCOMERS… #DharmaProductions – the production house known for shaping some of #Bollywood‘s biggest stars – is all set to introduce two fresh faces to the big screen.
Selected from over 500 auditions, the two newcomers – a… pic.twitter.com/ZXDZQrQi41
— taran adarsh (@taran_adarsh) November 8, 2025
Dharma Productions has often faced criticism for primarily launching “star kids.” Actors like Alia Bhatt, Varun Dhawan, Ananya Panday, Janhvi Kapoor, and Ibrahim Ali Khan are among those introduced by the banner. Johar has previously stated that he offers opportunities to everyone, but the allegations have persisted.
The identities of these two new actors have not yet been revealed. Further details, including the films they will debut in, are expected soon. This announcement signals Dharma Productions’ intention to cultivate and introduce a new generation of talent.
Public reaction on social media has been largely cynical. Many users view the move as an attempt to mend Dharma Productions’ image. One X user, @TheeLieLamaa, commented that it was “Bollywood’s biggest plot twist yet!”
Dharma Productions launching real outsiders? Wow, Bollywood’s biggest plot twist yet ! 🎬
Next thing you know, Karan Johar will say, ‘We selected them because they don’t have a famous surname.’ 😏😂
— The Lie Lamaa 🏹 (@TheeLieLamaa) November 8, 2025
Another user, @AbsoluteVish, speculated that the newcomers might still have distant connections to established film families. This reflects the deep skepticism prevalent among some audiences regarding the industry’s commitment to genuine meritocracy.
I’m sure those newcomers must be relatives or distant relatives of Kapoors or Khans. Dharma is ridiculous in doing this
— Vishvendra (@AbsoluteVish) November 8, 2025
Looking ahead, Dharma Productions has films like “Tu Meri Main Tera” and “Nagzila” slated for release next year. Both will feature Kartik Aaryan, another “outsider” who has achieved significant success. However, “Tu Meri Main Tera” will also co-star Ananya Panday, a prominent “star kid.”