Mumbai, September 19, 2025 –
The much-anticipated Netflix release The Ba**ds of Bollywood*, directed by Shah Rukh Khan’s son Aryan Khan, made its grand premiere on September 18 in Mumbai. The screening turned into one of the most talked-about industry events of the season, drawing in Bollywood stalwarts, young stars, critics, and media alike. Among those in attendance were actress Madhuri Dixit and her husband, cardiovascular surgeon and entrepreneur Dr. Shriram Nene, whose candid remarks about Aryan’s debut have sparked conversations across social media and industry circles.
A Star-Studded Premiere Night
The red carpet outside a prominent Mumbai multiplex lit up with flashbulbs as celebrities gathered to witness Aryan Khan’s first step into filmmaking. Netflix executives were present in full force, underlining the platform’s confidence in Aryan’s vision. Madhuri Dixit, dazzling in a classic saree, arrived with Dr. Shriram Nene, who later described the evening as “memorable, entertaining, and refreshing.”
The screening hall, packed with actors, directors, producers, and critics, buzzed with anticipation. Aryan himself appeared composed, choosing to let his work speak for itself.
Dr. Shriram Nene’s Take: “Aryan Learned the Hard Way”
After the premiere, Dr. Nene took to social media (X/Twitter) to share his reflections. His words immediately caught the media’s attention:
“Some will say that the nepotism equation comes full circle. But Aryan actually learned the hard way, studying his craft at USC in one of the world’s finest film schools. The feat is coming out of the shadows of his father, Shah Rukh Khan, which I think Aryan is doing admirably with this debut. Can’t wait to see the rest of the series.”
For many, this acknowledgement resonated deeply. Aryan Khan has grown up under intense public scrutiny, with both privilege and pressure shaping his journey. Dr. Nene’s emphasis on Aryan’s rigorous education and hard work brought nuance to the ongoing nepotism debate that has long haunted Bollywood.
High Praise for Writing and Production
In another post, Dr. Nene shared glimpses from the event alongside Madhuri Dixit, adding more perspective to his review:
“Had an amazing time at the premiere of Netflix’s Aryan Khan directorial debut, the ‘Ba**ds of Bollywood.’ The scripting, casting, mounting, and production values were top-notch. But the funniest part was no stone was left unturned in the irreverence, poking humour, and observations at all aspects of the Bollywood equation.”*
His review highlighted the show’s strength: sharp writing, layered satire, and strong technical execution.
The Series: Satire with Bite
The Ba**ds of Bollywood* is not a conventional Bollywood debut project. Rather than romance or action — the usual playground of star kids — Aryan opted for satire. The series takes a bold, irreverent look at the Hindi film industry itself, poking fun at its eccentricities, hypocrisies, and glittering yet fragile ecosystem.
Early viewers describe it as a darkly comic exploration of stardom, scandals, and the blurred line between reel and real life. From exaggerated portrayals of industry insiders to razor-sharp dialogues that echo real controversies, the series aims to both entertain and provoke discussion.
Aryan Khan’s Journey to the Director’s Chair
Born in 1997, Aryan Khan has been in the limelight from the moment of his birth. Paparazzi trailed him throughout his childhood, and his resemblance to Shah Rukh Khan often made headlines. Yet, unlike many Bollywood heirs, Aryan showed little interest in facing the camera as an actor.
Instead, he pursued film studies at the prestigious USC School of Cinematic Arts in Los Angeles, where he trained in writing, directing, and production. Former classmates recall him as “focused, disciplined, and determined to make a name independently.”
Breaking the Nepotism Stereotype
The release comes at a time when nepotism remains a hot-button issue in Bollywood. Critics often dismiss star kids’ careers as products of privilege. However, Aryan’s decision to remain behind the camera, and his willingness to take on a genre as risky as satire, has won cautious appreciation.
Film critic Anupama Chopra noted, “Aryan Khan has chosen the most difficult route. A satire on Bollywood by a star kid could easily backfire. But his approach feels authentic, and his writing displays confidence.”
Industry and Audience Reactions
The premiere was followed by a flood of reactions online. Hashtags like #AryanKhanDebut and #BastardsOfBollywood trended on X. While some skeptics questioned whether Netflix’s heavy promotion was riding on SRK’s legacy, most comments acknowledged Aryan’s effort to create something unique.
Director Zoya Akhtar tweeted: “Fresh, sharp, and gutsy. Aryan Khan’s debut proves he has his own voice.”
Actor Rajkummar Rao posted on Instagram: “Loved the energy and irreverence of Aryan’s show. Satire done right!”
A New Chapter for the Khan Legacy
With Aryan stepping into direction and Suhana Khan gearing up for her acting career, Shah Rukh Khan’s children are slowly shaping their own paths in Bollywood. For Aryan, The Ba**ds of Bollywood* is not just a debut but a statement: he is here to create, not imitate.
As Dr. Nene aptly summarized, Aryan has “learned the hard way” — and perhaps that hard-earned discipline is what will define his career ahead.
