Kannada film director Indrajit Lankesh, who is preparing to launch his son Samarjit Lankesh as the lead actor in his upcoming film Gowri, shares insights on the decision-making process behind casting his son, the challenges that arose, and the valuable lessons learned from this experience. Here are some key excerpts from the conversation:

- Was it always the intention to debut your son as a lead actor in Gowri?

Indrajit reveals that initially, he had not planned on collaborating with Samarjit on a project. He wanted his son to establish his own identity in the industry and actively pursued training in theater, acting in New York, and assisting on various Kannada films. As a filmmaker who has consistently introduced fresh talent throughout his career, Indrajit recognized Samarjit's readiness for a leading role when he had a suitable script. Evaluating his son's compatibility with the character, an audition and screen test were held before finalizing his casting.

- How do you view the issue of nepotism?

Indrajit expresses his belief that Samarjit's association with a film family has posed more challenges than advantages for him. While star kids inherit a pre-existing fan base due to their celebrity parents, they inevitably face the daunting task of establishing their own distinct identity independent of their familial legacy. The pressure to break away from comparisons with their parents and carve out a unique path can be particularly demanding. Drawing from his personal experience of being compared to his accomplished father P Lankesh, Indrajit underscores the difficulties inherent in living up to such a formidable legacy across multiple creative domains. He stresses the importance of pursuing individual passions and forging a distinct presence in the industry.I have been involved in various controversies as a director and journalist and have faced repercussions for my outspoken statements. For Samarjit, the challenge lies in distancing himself from this reputation and starting anew. Despite our creative differences during the filmmaking process, I have learned a lot from working with him. Samarjit's methodical approach to character portrayal and storytelling, honed through his theater background, has taught me the significance of attention to detail. He is dedicated to his craft and is driven by a genuine passion for acting. As the release date approaches, I find myself more anxious than Samarjit. While introducing talents in my previous works has been fulfilling, introducing my son is a unique experience. I believe this film is my best work yet, and I have poured my heart into it.In the world of filmmaking, the focus often lies on the director and producer. However, being an actor offers a favorable position. If you are confident in your abilities, consistently deliver strong performances, and establish yourself as a skilled actor, opportunities for work will always be abundant. This favorable position is highly desirable in the industry.