When Stardom Didn’t Run in the Family: 7 Star Kids Who Couldn’t Shine in Bollywood

Bollywood is no stranger to nepotism debates, with many assuming that star kids have a guaranteed path to success. However, the careers of several children of legendary actors tell a different story. Despite their famous lineage, many struggled to make a mark and eventually switched careers. Here’s a look at seven star kids who couldn’t replicate their parents’ stardom:

1. Rajiv Kapoor – Son of Raj Kapoor
Rajiv Kapoor, one of Raj Kapoor’s three sons, debuted with Ek Jaan Hai Hum (1983) and later appeared in Ram Teri Ganga Maili (1985), which brought him overnight fame. However, unlike his brothers Rishi and Randhir Kapoor, success was fleeting. He later moved into directing and producing films like Prem Granth (1996) and Aa Ab Laut Chalein (1999), both of which flopped.

2. Kunal and Karan Kapoor – Sons of Shashi Kapoor
Kunal Kapoor began as a child artist in Siddharth and later appeared in films like Junoon, Ahista Ahista, Vijeta, and Utsav. He eventually turned to advertising and started his production company. His brother Karan Kapoor debuted in Junoon and moved to the UK in 1988, where he pursued a career in photography.

3. Kumar Gaurav – Son of Rajendra Kumar
Kumar Gaurav, born Manoj Tuli, debuted with the hit Love Story (1981) and later acted in Naam and Kaante. However, further success eluded him, prompting him to leave acting and focus on business ventures.

4. Shadaab Khan – Son of Amjad Khan
Shadaab Khan, son of the legendary villain Amjad Khan, debuted in Raja Ki Aayegi Baraat (1997) alongside Rani Mukerji. He struggled to gain traction in films and later turned to writing, moving away from acting.

5. Puru Rajkumar – Son of Raj Kumar
Puru Rajkumar appeared in villainous and supporting roles. He debuted in Bal Brahmachari (1996) with Karishma Kapoor, but subsequent films failed at the box office, prompting him to step away from acting.

6. Kunal Goswami – Son of Manoj Kumar
Kunal Goswami started as a child artist in Kranti and later appeared in Kalakar, Ghungroo, and Jai Hind. Failing to achieve stardom, he left acting and began a catering business in Delhi.

7. Sunil Anand – Son of Dev Anand
Sunil Anand debuted in Anand Aur Anand, which flopped, and later appeared in Car Thief (1986), Main Tere Liye (1988), and Master (2001). He never reached the superstardom of his father and now manages Dev Anand’s production company.

Despite their famous lineage, these star kids faced the harsh realities of Bollywood, proving that stardom is never guaranteed—even with a legendary surname.