Sanjay Gupta defends Vikrant Massey over his acting hiatus, Apurva Asrani wonders if he will be ‘cancelled’ | Bollywood

The entertainment industry was stunned by actor Vikrant Massey’s unexpected announcement that he will quit acting after 2025. The news was met with mixed reactions from his colleagues, with some expressing their well wishes while others were curious about the motivations behind his decision. Screenwriter Apurva Asrani has also speculated that Vikrant may have been ‘cancelled’ due to his personal views. On the other hand, filmmaker Sanjay Gupta has praised Vikrant for his bold step. Read also: Bold decision or publicity stunt? Fans Are Divided Over Vikrant Massey’s Shocking ‘Retirement Announcement’

Vikrant amazes the industry

Filmmaker Sanjay Gupta took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to defend Vikrant for his break from acting and compared him to director Hansal Mehta. “In 2008, Hansal Mehta left the film industry and Mumbai. He along with his family moved to a small village called Malawali in Lonavala. He recalibrated, reinvented himself and came back to his career best with SHAHID in 2012 and never looked back,” Sanjay wrote.

He added: “Do you realize the courage it takes to do that? Escape from everyday life even though you have a family to look after and the possibility of never directing again? It takes courage, resilience and an insane amount of self-confidence. In a way, Vikrant Massey does the same thing. In these times of competition, insecurity, jealousy and rivalry, it takes courage for an actor to take a break and focus on his duties as a father, husband and son. He should be praised and not criticized.”

Apurva took a dissenting stance and questioned whether Vikrant’s decision to quit acting was a voluntary decision or a consequence of something. He even questioned his film The Sabarmati Report. The film is based on the Godhra train fire incident in 2002 in Gujarat.

“He made a cardinal mistake by preparing #SabarmatiReport and then openly supporting this government. He forgot that the biggest platforms, the producing dynasties, the media and the awards are left-wing “liberals” who will NEVER give their talent due credit. Wake up or go broke #VikrantMassey,” he wrote.

Vikrant takes a break

On Monday, Vikrant shared on Instagram that he plans to take a step back from acting after 2025. “The last few years and beyond have been phenomenal. I thank each and every one of you for your unwavering support. But the further I progress, the more I realize it’s time to recalibrate and return home. As a husband, father and son. And also as an actor,” Vikrant wrote in the note.

The actor, who was recently seen in The Sabarmati Report, opened up about the two films he is currently shooting. He added: “So in 2025 we will meet one last time. Until the time comes. The last two films and many years of memories. Thanks again. For anything and everything in between.” Vikrant’s update came as a shock to many, with some wondering whether it is a sabbatical or retirement.