Ever stumbled upon a celebrity feud that’s more playful roast than real grudge? That’s exactly the vibe we’re diving into today—where Manoj Bajpayee playfully accuses Anurag Kashyap of envying his dashing appearance and disciplined lifestyle. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this just good-natured fun, or does it hint at deeper rivalries in the film industry? Stick around as we unpack this Bollywood banter, complete with viral moments and career highlights that might just change how you view these two icons.
Renowned actor Manoj Bajpayee and acclaimed director Anurag Kashyap have teamed up on multiple blockbuster films, such as ‘Satya,’ ‘Shool,’ and the epic ‘Gangs of Wasseypur.’ Over the years, this partnership has forged a strong, enduring professional relationship that’s as much about mutual respect as it is about creative synergy. While chatting about his newest venture, Bajpayee couldn’t resist throwing some lighthearted digs at Kashyap, even suggesting the director harbors a bit of envy toward him.
Let’s rewind to an unforgettable, viral episode from earlier this year. During a promotional event for Bajpayee’s film ‘Jugnuma,’ he recounted a spontaneous and amusing incident where Kashyap unexpectedly began touching his feet in a gesture of reverence. Fellow actors Jaideep Ahlawat and Vijay Verma joined in, turning the moment into a delightful, shareable clip that had fans cracking up. In a recent interview with News18 Showsha, the star of ‘Aligarh’ expanded on this with a cheeky tease: ‘That whole thing was sparked by Anurag Kashyap. Honestly, I think he’s a little jealous of my looks. He doesn’t prioritize his well-being, while I make it a point to stay in top shape.’
And this is the part most people miss—Bajpayee isn’t just talking shop; he’s drawing a stark contrast in their daily routines. He shared how his commitment to health sets him apart: ‘Just the other day, I had to skip an interview because I wasn’t feeling up to it. It’s all about how you nurture your body and mind, and I’m incredibly disciplined about it. I was up at 5 a.m. today, and I’m meticulous with my diet, whereas Anurag couldn’t care less—he’s all about indulging in mutton every single day.’ For beginners curious about Bollywood dynamics, this highlights how stars like Bajpayee balance grueling schedules with personal wellness, often prioritizing rest and nutrition over endless partying, which can be a game-changer for longevity in the industry.
Of course, Kashyap hasn’t stayed silent on this. In an earlier chat with News18, the director behind ‘Dev.D’ clarified that the feet-touching was purely a sign of admiration. He explained, ‘Jaideep, Vijay, Viineet Kumar Singh, and I ran into each other after ages, and we all paid our respects at Manoj’s feet (laughs). The guy’s unstoppable—churning out films left and right. ‘Inspector Zende’ just dropped, followed by ‘Jugnuma.’ How on earth does he manage it? He’s older than me but fitter by a mile. He’s like the next Anil Kapoor, that’s why we bowed down to him (laughs)! He’s a living legend.’ This response flips the script, turning Bajpayee’s jest into a testament of respect—and it raises eyebrows about whether such banter strengthens or strains their bond.
Shifting gears to Bajpayee’s latest triumph, ‘The Family Man’ has made a triumphant comeback. After a four-year hiatus, season 3 premiered on November 21st, with Bajpayee reprising his iconic role as Srikant Tiwari, the no-nonsense RAW agent juggling family life and high-stakes espionage. For those new to the show, think of it as an Indian spin on spy thrillers like ’24,’ where everyday heroism meets intense action—perfect for understanding how characters navigate moral dilemmas in a fast-paced world. This installment brings fresh talent to the mix, including Jaideep Ahlawat as a cunning drug smuggler from India’s Northeast, and Nimrat Kaur in a pivotal role that adds emotional depth to Srikant’s narrative, promising twists that could keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
What do you think— is Manoj Bajpayee’s playful shade at Anurag Kashyap just harmless fun, or does it reveal hidden tensions in their friendship? Could their vastly different lifestyles be a metaphor for broader debates in Bollywood, like health vs. indulgence? Share your thoughts in the comments below—do you agree with Bajpayee’s take, or side with Kashyap’s admiration? Let’s discuss!