Taking Criticism on the Chin

In an industry where success is celebrated noisily and failure is often explained away, the ability to take criticism without getting defensive is becoming a mark of professional maturity. Whether it is a disappointing first look, a film that fails to meet expectations or a performance that invites scrutiny, some leading actors are showing that listening to the audience is part of the job.

Rajkummar Rao learnt this after the first-look poster of his much-anticipated Sourav Ganguly biopic, Dada, drew widespread criticism. Fans questioned its execution, with some describing it as AI-generated. Rather than dismissing the backlash, Rajkummar acknowledged that the marketing team had rushed the material and needed to exercise greater care. He also recognised the responsibility of meeting the expectations of Ganguly’s passionate fan base.

Nani, too, took the criticism in his stride when The Paradise, his collaboration with director Srikanth Odela, faced online trolling. He admitted to enjoying some of the hilarious trolls rather than taking them personally. The response, in many ways, reflected audience expectations, while the film’s subsequent reworking for its digital release offered an opportunity to address what viewers felt was missing.

Dulquer Salmaan took a similar approach when his film I’m Game, which he produced and starred in, underperformed at the box office. Responding to a fan’s detailed critique on X, he acknowledged that much of the feedback was valid. While standing by his crew’s efforts, he took responsibility for the film’s shortcomings, making it clear that he would not shift the blame onto his team.

Abhishek Bachchan has arrived at a similar understanding over the course of his career. Speaking at an award function, he acknowledged that audiences have every right to judge the films they spend their time and money on. He admitted that, when he was younger, he was more likely to question his critics. With experience, however, he learnt to value feedback, recognising that honest criticism is essential for growth.

Akshay Kumar, too, has faced his share of box-office setbacks and criticism. He has often emphasised that an actor is ultimately accountable to the audience. “Audience hi maalik hai,” he has said, acknowledging that those who pay to watch a film have every right to an opinion. Their response, however uncomfortable, can offer valuable lessons on when to rethink one’s approach.

For actors accustomed to applause, criticism can be an uncomfortable mirror. These examples underline an important distinction: taking every online barb seriously is neither necessary nor wise. Knowing when criticism is fair, accepting responsibility and learning from it may be the real measure of a star.

I don’t believe in attributing conspiracy theories to all criticism. Sure, a lot of the trolling is malicious. The important thing is to listen to healthy criticism. If people who care for your work are offended, then you need to listen and fix the damage.”

Rajkummar Rao

Since I don’t believe all of it is paid, I’ve always paid heed to criticism.

I respond politely even to the malicious remarks against me. As long as the criticism is for my work and not about my family, I am open to it.”

Abhishek Bachchan