- Tuesday, June 17, 2025
Actress Wamiqa Gabbi stirred headlines with her candid comment on wanting to “steal” Karan Johar from Alia Bhatt, reigniting Bollywood’s nepotism and mentorship debate while drawing support from fans and parallels with Aishwarya Rai’s past remarks.
By: Vibhuti Pathak
Wamiqa Gabbi, known for her candidness and rising presence in Indian cinema, recently made headlines with her forthright remarks about Bollywood’s power dynamics.
In an interview with Nayandeep Rakshit, Wamiqa was asked what she would like to “steal” from Alia Bhatt. Without hesitation, she replied, “Karan Johar,” elaborating, “because he has been her biggest supporter, and I think to have someone that powerful, talented and in that position — and to have that love that you share with that person, to have that person in your life — isn’t that a beautiful thing?”
Her statement shines a light on the value of mentorship and influential backing in the film industry. Wamiqa didn’t stop there—she also expressed playful envy for other celebrities, saying she’d like to steal Ananya Panday’s skin, Keerthy Suresh’s humility, Varun Dhawan’s energy, Shah Rukh Khan’s legacy, and Kriti Sanon’s height.
Social Media Buzz: Applause and Critique
Wamiqa’s remarks quickly set social media abuzz. Many Reddit users saw her comments as refreshingly honest, especially in an industry where such realities are often left unsaid. One user remarked, “Ash ki beti Wamiqa has more guts than nepo chaplus (She has more guts than nepo kids).” Others drew parallels between Wamiqa’s candor and earlier statements by stars like Aishwarya Rai and Kangana Ranaut, noting, “Aishwarya, Kangana, Kriti, and now Wamiqa! Alia keeps getting exposed!”
Another user commented, “Alia won’t like this compliment. Aishwarya to Aishwarya lookalike — they’re all saying the same thing.” Some even speculated about Alia’s career trajectory, with one writing, “It’s absolutely true though. Alia would’ve been launched by the Bhatts if not for KJo. She wouldn’t have her current career without his constant lobbying and support.” The overall sentiment was summed up by another comment: “Finally, a celeb said it aloud about KJo and Alia — lol.”
View this post on Instagram
The Alia Bhatt–Karan Johar Bond: Industry Observations
Alia Bhatt’s journey in Bollywood has often been linked to her close association with Karan Johar. She made her debut in Johar’s “Student Of The Year” and quickly rose to stardom with hits like Highway, 2 States, and Humpty Sharma Ki Dulhania. Many in the industry, including Aishwarya Rai and Sonakshi Sinha, have openly acknowledged the pivotal role Johar has played in Alia’s career.
Karan Johar slams Alia Bhatt nepotism claims, says ‘you’ve got to be the most idiotic person’
Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, in a candid interview with Bollywood Hungama, addressed Alia’s privileged position:
“I’ve said this to her also — it’s fantastic for you, the kind of support Karan has given to her from the beginning. To have that kind of establishment with you is very comforting. It’s not tough to have it laid out for you for the longest time.”
She further added, “it’s great for you as an actor, as there is only good work and good opportunities ahead. What’s nice is she’s also doing good work along with great opportunities, which are virtually there on her lap, literally, regularly. So, it’s nice she is doing good work within that. So kudos.”
Upcoming Projects: What’s Next for Wamiqa Gabbi and Alia Bhatt
View this post on Instagram
Looking forward, both Wamiqa Gabbi and Alia Bhatt have exciting projects lined up. Wamiqa is set to appear in the Netflix series Rakt Brahmand: The Bloody Kingdom, which is generating considerable buzz.
Alia Bhatt, meanwhile, will be seen in Alpha, a film from the YRF Spy Universe, alongside Sharvari and directed by Shiv Rawail, slated for a December theatrical release. She also has Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War on the horizon, co-starring Ranbir Kapoor and Vicky Kaushal.
Wamiqa Gabbi’s candid wish to “steal” Karan Johar from Alia Bhatt has reignited conversations about mentorship, privilege, and power in Bollywood. Her boldness, echoed by social media reactions and earlier remarks from industry veterans like Aishwarya Rai, continues to spotlight the influential relationships that shape careers in the film industry.
As both Wamiqa and Alia gear up for their next big releases, their journeys remain closely watched by fans and industry insiders alike.
