Vikrant Massey discussed the pressures of public relations in the film industry, sharing his discomfort with PR tactics despite attempts to engage.
Today, an actor’s success and relevance are no longer defined solely by their talent or box office numbers—public relations (PR) has become a crucial tool in shaping their image, influence, and longevity. In a recent chat with Rhea Chakraborty on her podcast, Vikrant Massey recalled how he tried his hand at upping his PR game—but failed.
Vikrant Massey on actor’s PR tactics
Talking about not following many of the PR tactics to stay relevant in the industry, Vikrant said, “There are days when I actually sit back and question my choices also. There are days when I probably fall weak, and sit with that thought for 2-3 days, am I doing the right thing, should I go and position myself in a certain way? Should I actually go out there and get clicked by paps? To each their own, voh zaruri bhi hai kyunki uska ek traction hai (That is also important because it has its own traction).”
Vikrant on trying to get attention through PR
He admitted to trying to get attention through PR activities but didn’t feel comfortable with it, and said, “I tried for 4-5 months, probably half a year. I started attending parties, I started renting out clothes, and they are so expensive. Itna paisa lagta hai ek hi baar kapde pehanane ke liye (It costs so much to wear clothes one time). 50-60K a day, per event. My wife, who was my girlfriend then, said Why? For 4-5 hours, you are wearing big designer’s clothes, voh pur mahine ka kharcha hai humara (that is our monthly expense). I tried and I failed and I realised how uncomfortable I was. I was not being myself. I was always conscious wearing those ultra expensive clothes ki kuch ganda naa hojaaye (clothes don’t get dirty) because I had to return them.”
Bollywood actors are often seen posing for the paparazzi at the airport while leaving for vacations or work, flaunting their airport looks. Many celebrities use PR machinery to stay constantly relevant in the public eye, and it has now become a trend.
