In today’s Bollywood, a star’s success isn’t just about talent or box office numbers—it’s also about staying visible, relevant, and part of the conversation, often with the help of PR machinery and carefully curated public appearances. But Vikrant Massey, one of the industry’s most consistent performers, has chosen a different path.
Ahead of the release of his next film Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, Vikrant recently opened up about his brief brush with the world of PR and glamour during a podcast with Rhea Chakraborty.
Vikrant revealed that he once attempted to increase his visibility in the industry by showing up at high-profile parties, wearing designer outfits he often had to rent to blend in with Bollywood’s social scene. “For about four to six months, I gave it a shot. I began going to these parties, renting clothes—and it turned out to be incredibly costly,” he recalled. “Ek baar kapde pehnane ka hi itna kharcha ho jata hai (Just wearing those clothes once costs so much). Around fifty to sixty thousand rupees for each event.”
It was Sheetal Thakur, his wife and then-girlfriend, who softly raised questions about whether spending so much was really necessary. Her words made Vikrant step back and consider if these PR efforts truly matched his values. “You wear these expensive designer outfits for just a few hours, and that alone equals what we spend in a whole month,” he reflected. “I gave it a try, but it didn’t work for me, and I realised how uneasy it made me feel.”
The unease he felt wasn’t only about the money—it was deeper than that. Putting on pricey clothes that were beyond his means and showing up at gatherings where he didn’t feel he belonged, Vikrant realised he was trying to be someone he wasn’t. “I was constantly anxious that these costly outfits might get stained or damaged since I had to give them back,” he shared.
Even as the industry increasingly relies on paparazzi shots, airport style spottings, and constant online chatter, Vikrant made a conscious choice to step back from that race. Instead, he decided to let his performances, the roles he picks, and his openness to trying new things define his public image.
“There are moments when I doubt the decisions I’ve made,” he confessed, admitting that the pull to follow industry trends can be strong. “Sometimes, I feel vulnerable and wonder, ‘Should I step out and get photographed by the paps?’ Everyone has their own way. Aur voh bhi zaruri hai kyunki usse ek visibility milti hai (That’s important too because it brings its own kind of visibility).”
Yet for Vikrant, staying true to himself and feeling at ease took precedence over chasing calculated visibility.
On the Work Front
Vikrant Massey will next be seen in Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, a romantic drama exploring the layered relationship between two visually impaired individuals navigating love and life in the modern world. The film, which marks the debut of Shanaya Kapoor, is directed by Santosh Singh and written by Mansi Bagla, with Zee Studios and Mini Films backing the project.The film is set to hit cinemas on July 11.
Recently, Vikrant was spotted at Sri Sri Ravi Shankar’s ashram with his family, sparking speculation that he might be preparing for another role inspired by Art of Living principles. Meanwhile, on Instagram, he gave fans a peek at a new look, leaving netizens curious about what’s next.
In a world that constantly pushes actors to chase the limelight, Vikrant Massey’s choice to stay grounded and let his work take center stage is rare—and refreshing. As Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan gears up for release, audiences seem ready to embrace an actor whose authenticity resonates as deeply as his performances.
By Sulagna Kar
