Salman Khan's 'Dabangg 3' co-star Saiee Manjrekar on nepotism: 'Being an industry kid doesn't guarantee success'

Saiee Manjrekar, daughter of filmmaker Mahesh Manjrekar, is pushing back against the notion that a famous film family guarantees success in Bollywood. As she gears up for her upcoming period drama 'India House,' backed by Ram Charan in his debut production venture, Saiee is focused on earning her place in the industry through craft, discipline, and audience connect, not her surname.

Saiee Manjrekar talks about breaking the star kid stereotype

Saiee Manjrekar got candid about what industry privilege can and cannot do. Speaking to Mid-Day, she acknowledged that a recognisable family name may open initial doors but insisted the real test lies entirely elsewhere.



She said, "Being an industry kid may help open certain doors initially, but that doesn't guarantee opportunities or success. If the audience doesn't connect with you or accept you as an actor, nothing really goes far."

Her ambition, she added, is rooted in building something that is entirely her own. "I want to build a name for myself through my work and connect with viewers across industries," she stated.

Saiee Manjrekar shares she believes in hard work, discipline, and staying grounded

In a conversation with IANS, Saiee elaborated on the values that she believes will ultimately define her trajectory in the industry, regardless of the surname she carries. She said, "While my surname may introduce me to people, I believe it's ultimately my hard work, discipline, and persistence that will define my journey."

She added, "I've always wanted to step out of the comfort of my film background and create an identity of my own. For me, growth comes from constantly learning, proving myself through my work, and staying grounded through it all."

More about 'India House'

'India House' marks Ram Charan's first outing as a producer and is being shot simultaneously in Hindi and Telugu, mounted on a notably large canvas. The film is set in a period backdrop, a format Saiee has found both creatively stimulating and technically demanding. Speaking about the project earlier in April, she noted that working on a set recreating a different era and time period "is very interesting."

The release date of the project has not yet been announced.Get the latest entertainment updates from the Times of India, along with the latest Hindi movies, upcoming Hindi movies in 2026 , and Telugu movies.”