Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan recently addressed allegations that his Filmfare Best Actor award for I Want To Talk was earned through strong public relations rather than genuine talent. The controversy began after an X user questioned the legitimacy of his win, suggesting it was driven by PR influence. Responding to the criticism, Bachchan firmly defended his hard work, dedication, and acting journey, emphasising that his recognition stemmed from consistent effort and merit. He urged people to respect the creative process and acknowledged that while opinions vary, true success always comes from passion, perseverance, and professional integrity in one’s craft.
Abhishek Bachchan Denies Award-Buying Allegations, Stresses Integrity and Hard Work
Abhishek Bachchan addressed criticism on Wednesday after a journalist accused him of staying relevant in Bollywood through award-buying and heavy publicity tactics. The allegations emerged soon after he received the Filmfare Best Actor award for his 2024 film I Want To Talk, which garnered mixed reviews and failed to perform well at the box office. Taking to social media, Bachchan firmly dismissed the claims, emphasising his belief in sincerity, perseverance, and professional ethics. He stated that his career has always been driven by dedication to his craft rather than manipulation or promotion, reaffirming his respect for genuine artistic recognition and effort.
The controversy erupted when an X user, identifying himself in his bio as a “journalist, editor, trade analyst, and cricket ninja,” wrote: “As much as he’s an affable guy, I hate to say that professionally #AbhishekBachchan is the prime example of how buying awards and aggressive PR pushes can keep you relevant… even if you don’t have a single SOLO blockbuster in your career. He won an award for #IWantToTalk this year… A film which no one saw apart from a few PAID reviewers. And now I see all these tweets saying 2025 is HIS year. HILARIOUS !! (sic).”
The social media user further claimed that the film industry tends to favour individuals backed by powerful public relations teams and greater resources, stating: “There are far better actors than him who deserve more recognition, work, appreciation & awards…. but alas! They don’t have PR smarts & money (sic),” which further fuelled discussion on social media platforms.
Have ALWAYS written laudatory things about your conduct and many a time about your films/acting too, sir. And opinions are always reserved for work, never about someone’s character or personal life. What I wrote about this film is a subjective opinion. No malice intended. As for… https://t.co/oXvxgDDFHQ — Navneet Mundhra (@navneet_mundhra) October 29, 2025
In response, Abhishek Bachchan dismissed the allegations and emphasised his dedication to his craft. He stated: “Just to set the record straight. Never has any award been bought or aggressive PR been done by me . Just hard work, blood, sweat and tears. But, I doubt you’ll believe anything I say or write. So. The best way to shut you up is by working even harder so that you don’t ever doubt any achievement that will happen in the future, again. I will prove you wrong! With all due respect and ‘affability’.”
Abhishek Bachchan Defends Merit and Integrity Amid Debate on Award Fairness
Bachchan’s response stood out for its straightforward tone and strong emphasis on merit-based success. He stressed that his accomplishments result from consistent hard work and dedication, not from orchestrated publicity or purchased accolades. His statement quickly gained traction online, sparking widespread discussion about the credibility and transparency of film awards. Many appreciated his candour and defence of integrity, while others reignited the broader debate over fairness in the entertainment industry. The exchange highlighted growing public concern about how recognition is earned and the importance of valuing genuine talent over influence or promotional power in modern cinema.
As much as he’s an affable guy, I hate to say that professionally #AbhishekBachchan is the prime example of how buying awards and aggressive PR pushes can keep you relevant… even if you don’t have a single SOLO blockbuster in your career. He won an award for #IWantToTalk this… pic.twitter.com/bMLdiMYIen — Navneet Mundhra (@navneet_mundhra) October 29, 2025
I Want To Talk, directed by Shoojit Sircar, premiered in 2024. Although the film struggled at the box office, Abhishek Bachchan’s performance received notable appreciation from critics. Reviews ranged from mixed to positive, with many commending his nuanced portrayal and emotional depth.