For most star kids, a debut project often comes with assumptions of an easy entry into the industry. But filmmaker Rajkumar Hirani insists that wasn’t the case for his son, Vir Hirani. The acclaimed director recently shared that despite producing and creating Pritam and Pedro, he made Vir go through the same audition process as every other aspiring actor before handing him the lead role.
Pritam and Pedro marks two significant milestones—it is Rajkumar Hirani’s first long-format OTT series and Vir Hirani’s acting debut. However, the filmmaker revealed that Vir wasn’t even the original choice for the character. The young actor developed an interest in the role only after watching several actors audition at their home, where the casting process was underway.
According to Hirani, Vir expressed his desire to audition after observing the process. Rather than giving him preferential treatment, the director made his expectations crystal clear. He told his son not to assume the role was his simply because of their relationship, stressing that he would have to earn it on merit like everyone else.
The filmmaker explained that Vir eventually auditioned for the part and impressed the creative team. His theatre background and preparation played a crucial role in convincing the makers that he was the right fit for the character. Hirani maintained that casting decisions should always be based on performance and suitability rather than family connections.
Interestingly, Rajkumar Hirani also admitted that acting wasn’t the career he initially envisioned for his son. He had hoped Vir would move behind the camera and pursue filmmaking instead. However, Vir had different aspirations. Recalling the conversation, Hirani revealed that his son reminded him of the message from 3 Idiots—that people should follow what they truly love. That argument ultimately convinced the director to support Vir’s decision to pursue acting.
Before stepping in front of the camera, Vir reportedly spent several years training in theatre and also worked on short films to hone his craft. Hirani believes that this preparation gave his son the confidence and discipline required for a professional acting career, making him more than just another star kid entering Bollywood.
In Pritam and Pedro, Vir stars alongside Arshad Warsi in a cybercrime comedy-drama that also features Vikrant Massey in a pivotal role. The series has generated considerable buzz not only because it marks Rajkumar Hirani’s OTT debut but also because it introduces a new face from one of Bollywood’s most respected filmmaking families.
Rajkumar Hirani’s candid comments have resonated with fans, especially at a time when conversations around nepotism and merit continue to dominate the entertainment industry. By insisting that his son audition for the role and prove himself, the filmmaker has underlined his belief that opportunity may open a door, but talent and hard work are what ultimately keep it open.
