Alia Bhatt Absent from Netflix’s ‘Dining With the Kapoors’

Netflix’s new series, Dining With the Kapoors, has captivated audiences since its release on November 21, 2023. This intimate show offers a rare look into the lives of one of Bollywood’s most prominent families, the Kapoors. Featuring stars such as Ranbir Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Karisma Kapoor, and Neetu Kapoor, the series showcases a family dinner filled with candid conversations. However, one notable absence drew significant attention: actress Alia Bhatt did not appear in any of the episodes.

Viewers quickly noticed that while actor Saif Ali Khan was present at the family gathering, Alia’s absence raised questions and sparked speculation among fans. In response, creator Armaan Jain, who is also Alia’s brother-in-law, clarified the situation in an interview with Bollywood Hungama. He explained, “She had prior commitments to shoot. I might sound filmy, but like Raj Kapoor said, ‘work is worship.’” This statement confirmed that Alia’s professional obligations prevented her from joining the family for the show.

Armaan Jain, the son of Rima Jain and first cousin to Kareena, Karisma, and Ranbir, originally conceptualized the series. He brought the idea to Netflix, resulting in a production that resonates with fans eager for behind-the-scenes insights into the Kapoor family. The show’s director, Smriti Mundhra, known for her work on The Romantics, also highlighted the family’s work ethic. She noted, “That is the one thing about this family. They are all workaholics, and they all love what they do.”

Despite the inherent challenges of gathering everyone, Mundhra acknowledged the family’s commitment to make time for each other. “There is always an understanding that everyone makes an attempt to gather and prioritise as much as possible, but inevitably there’s one or two people who can’t make it because of work, and that’s always allowed,” she explained.

The Kapoor family has a long-standing legacy in Indian cinema, dating back to the 1930s with Prithviraj Kapoor. His three sons, Raj, Shammi, and Shashi Kapoor, became beloved figures in the film industry. Following them, the next generation, including Rishi, Randhir, and Rajiv Kapoor, continued this tradition, solidifying the family’s status in Bollywood.

As Dining With the Kapoors continues to gain popularity, the series provides fans with an engaging look at the dynamics of this iconic family. Alia Bhatt’s absence may have sparked curiosity, but the show remains a celebration of the Kapoors’ enduring legacy in the world of film.