Ananya Lohia , Mumbai - Actor Shahid Kapoor has responded to film critic Anupama Chopra's claim that a well-known actor allegedly orchestrated a paid negative PR campaign against Alia Bhatt following her Cannes appearance. While addressing the issue, Shahid stressed the importance of not believing everything one hears without firsthand knowledge.

Speaking on The Hollywood Reporter India, Shahid said he prefers to take such claims "with a pinch of salt" unless he has personally witnessed them. He explained that influential people can sometimes be manipulated if they blindly accept what others tell them, adding that shaping someone's perception can be used to create a desired effect. The actor also reflected on insecurity within the entertainment industry, acknowledging that success and failure can sometimes make people feel vulnerable. However, he urged actors to remain authentic and allow audiences to see their real selves rather than trying to control public perception through image-building exercises.

Shahid further noted that criticism and negativity are inevitable aspects of fame. According to him, the love, recognition and success that come with stardom are often balanced by scrutiny and criticism, making it important for artists to remain grounded. The discussion stemmed from Anupama Chopra's recent remarks about the trolling Alia Bhatt faced after her Cannes appearance. Chopra claimed that a source within the film industry told her the online negativity was allegedly part of a paid campaign driven by professional insecurity. However, she did not name any individual or provide evidence to support the allegation.

While Shahid refrained from commenting directly on the accusation, he emphasized the need for authenticity and cautioned against drawing conclusions based on unverified claims. Meanwhile, Alia is gearing up for the release of Alpha, which also stars Sharvari and Bobby Deol and is set to hit theatres on July 3.