Vijay Deverakonda speaks about challenges of being an outsider in comparison to starkids and their privileges: 'I didn't have the luxury to say no...'
Vijay Deverakonda
has never shied away from speaking his mind—and his latest revelations are no exception. In a candid conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, the self-made star opened up about the silent struggles of being an outsider in an industry often dominated by privilege and legacy.
Drawing a clear line between his journey and that of star kids, Vijay offered rare insight into the unspoken rules that govern Bollywood and Tollywood, where access and influence can often outweigh talent.
Unlike actors with influential family backgrounds, Vijay reflected on the limitations he faced as an outsider in the industry. Citing the example of a fellow actor who could easily reject weak scripts and request rewrites thanks to his father's clout, Vijay contrasted it with his own early career, where turning down a project or even asking for time to consider a script wasn't a luxury he could afford.
The pressure to stay visible and relevant meant accepting roles without negotiation, underscoring the stark difference in opportunities between insiders and outsiders.
The actor's rise began with breakthrough films like Pelli Choopulu and
Arjun Reddy
, which quickly earned him a devoted fan following. Yet, despite his early success, his outsider status meant he had to navigate the industry with caution. Without the cushion of backing or powerful connections, he often felt compelled to accept whatever roles came his way, uncertain of when the next opportunity might knock.
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This sense of urgency shaped his initial career path, where staying visible took precedence over being choosy with scripts.
Over the years, Deverakonda has grown more confident in asserting himself creatively. He now feels comfortable giving honest feedback to filmmakers, even if it means pointing out what doesn't work for him. However, he's still aware of the gap that exists between him and those with industry lineage.
While star kids can request changes and set terms with ease, Vijay had to earn that space by gradually proving himself—step by step, project by project.
His reflections offer a candid look at the power dynamics within the film industry, where nepotism continues to tilt the scales in favor of a privileged few. His journey—from a rank outsider to a bankable star—stands as a powerful example for aspiring actors without industry ties. With Kingdom slated for release on 31st July and a few major untitled projects in the pipeline, Vijay shows no signs of slowing down.
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