Varun Dhawan Admits Feeling Jealous of Sidharth Malhotra During Student of the Year. "I had to fight..."

Varun Dhawan, who made his Bollywood debut alongside Sidharth Malhotra in 2012’s Student of the Year (SOTY), recently opened up about feeling jealous of his co-star during their initial days in the industry.

In an interview with Shubhankar Mishra, Dhawan revealed that his insecurities stemmed from Sidharth’s tall, wide frame and striking looks. Reflecting on those days, he confessed, “Mujhe notice bhi karenge ya nahi? Mera dream jo hai, dream reh jayega (Will people even notice me or not? My dream will only stay a dream).”

The actor recalled how the film, being a two-hero project, heightened his fears of being overshadowed. Adding to his challenges was the growing negativity surrounding nepotism at the time. Dhawan, son of veteran filmmaker David Dhawan, admitted to feeling disheartened by public perceptions. “The reception has not always been flowery,” he said. “Unhone baad mein hi diya na, par mai kitna bhi bol lun, logon ko alag hi lagega (He [David Dhawan] gave me work only later, but no matter how much I say, people will feel differently).”

Despite the criticism, Dhawan stated that he overcame doubts through consistent hard work and acting. “I had to fight during that time,” he said, emphasizing how box-office success gradually changed public opinion.

On the professional front, Dhawan is gearing up for several high-profile releases, including Sunny Sanskari Ki Tulsi Kumari with Janhvi Kapoor, slated for an April 18, 2025 release. His upcoming slate also features Border 2, Hai Jawani Toh Ishq Hona Hai, No Entry 2, and Bhediya 2.