The public scrutiny and trolling that Arjun Kapoor has faced in recent times is unjustified, mindless and deeply harsh, and it speaks more about social media’s mob thinking than it does about Arjun Kapoor as an actor - or even as a human being. Somewhere in between the lines, people have forgotten what he has brought to the table as an actor, a promising one.
Ever since he stepped into Bollywood, he has constantly proven to be a dependable performer who is willing to explore in the still-formulaic world. With a run of widely-loved films like Ishaqzaade, Ki & Ka, 2 States and Gunday, Arjun has proven his box office hold and has displayed his shift from romantic boy to raw intensity. Last year, he unleashed menace as Danger Lanka in Singham Again, and this unseen shade of him reminded audiences of his range as an actor.
He may not be the one to boast about his craft, but his work often reflects his drive to reinvent himself as an actor, with a commitment to everything he does on screen. He fits himself into the world of the story and disappears behind the character to let them breathe.
At home too, Arjun Kapoor is rooted in family, always keeping his loved ones above his professional gains. And this shade of him is rarely highlighted in public, yet it reveals more about his priorities.
Even when things have not gone his way, he has always chosen to avoid bitterness. From choosing not to lash out at critics, not to engage in public blame games, or feed any gossip - his choice has always been to focus on his growth. The audiences have admired his screen presence and good looks and has also highlighted his conduct in public places. In more ways than one, Arjun represents a stable and positive energy that the industry needs at a time when public perception can swing overnight! And this is why the mindless trolling does not feel right for Arjun.
The jokes and memes ignore more than a decade's worth of hard work, and very often, they forget that actors are human beings who feel the impact of such scrutiny and negativity. It’s easy to forget that behind the name is a man who has soared past grief, insecurity, and self-doubt to face the camera and give his best.
His body of work may reflect highs and lows, but come what may, his commitment and dedication have always stayed constant, and that’s enough to speak volumes about him as a substantial performer.
It’s time that the gaze changes - that we look at him through a more understanding lens, one that’s much-deserving for him. Even at times when one would crumble, Arjun has stayed strong - and that alone is worthy of respect.
