Filmmaker Karan Johar has sparked discussion over the growing role of business ventures in Bollywood, suggesting that actors’ entrepreneurial pursuits are increasingly lucrative.
In a recent interview, Johar highlighted that Shah Rukh Khan’s ownership of his IPL franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), is “more profitable than most of his movie ventures,” adding that Khan is personally involved in the team’s operations rather than merely lending his name.
Johar noted that this trend of actors actively running businesses is becoming a major revenue source beyond films. Fan reaction on social media has been divided: some praise stars as savvy entrepreneurs securing long-term income streams, while others worry that film projects are no longer the main priority, with careers increasingly tied to ventures such as sports franchises or product lines.
In another comment, Johar also pointed out that many actors frequently switch management, raising questions about loyalty. Fans have linked this observation to the broader debate, suggesting that contemporary actors are increasingly chasing opportunities beyond cinema, including equity deals and brand stakes, rather than focusing on long-term film projects.
The discussion has reignited questions around the balance between business growth and film craft, with observers asking: “Are actors prioritising business over cinema?” and “Does chasing money dilute cinematic choices?”