Over the years, Bollywood award shows have turned from grand celebrations of cinema into glittery, predictable events — at least that’s what actor Emraan Hashmi believes. The actor, who has been in the industry
for more than two decades, recently called out the transactional nature of such ceremonies, saying many have lost their credibility.
Speaking to Pinkvilla, Emraan shared that he realised early in his career how awards were often tied to performances at the same events. “Award shows are just an event now,” he said. “There are over 20 of them. I have no problem with people attending or receiving awards, but over the years, they have lost credibility. Everyone knows — and I learnt early in my life — that if you perform at that event, you will receive an award for it. Once, I was even offered such a deal. It’s no longer about your craft; it’s become a barter system.”
The Tiger 3 star didn’t hold back, adding that he refused to participate in what he called “self-congratulation.” “I don’t want to delude myself by taking that award and stashing it on my shelf, clapping for myself. That’s dishonest. If there’s something genuine, I will take it. Otherwise, it’s a waste of my time,” he said.
Joining the conversation, actor Yami Gautam admitted she too grew disillusioned over time. “As a newcomer, you grow up dreaming of one day being on that stage, receiving an award, giving your speech. I have practiced mine in the bathroom,” she laughed. “But once, my turn came at 2:30 AM, and by then, the excitement had completely faded.”
Emraan followed with a cheeky story that instantly reminded fans of Salman Khan’s famous comments about film awards. “Speaking of bathrooms,” he joked, “there’s this actor — I won’t name him — who used one of his awards as a handle for his bathroom flush. He realised early on what they were worth.”
While Emraan didn’t name the person, his comment echoed Salman’s own confession years ago when he said he used awards as door stoppers. “I was never into awards. My reward is the love and respect I get from my fans,” Salman had said then.
