Arjun Kapoor reveals Alia Bhatt was trolled for being cast in '2 States': 'People thought she didn't look South Indian enough'

Arjun Kapoor reminisced about working with Alia Bhatt in 2 States. He mentioned that Alia faced criticism on social media, with some saying she didn’t fit the role.
In a conversation with Mashable India, Arjun reflected on working with Alia in 2 States. He revealed that when Alia joined the 2014 romantic comedy-drama, she faced criticism online, with many believing she didn’t appear South Indian enough for the role.
The Singham Again star shared that her debut film Student of the Year hadn’t provided her with enough recognition to take on a role already familiar to audiences through the book. As a result, other prominent names were considered more suitable for the character's appearance.

However, the Jigra actress never complained about the criticism. Arjun highlighted that Alia is a perfect example of how hard work and focus can make everything fall into place. He added that she auditioned for the role and quietly did a photoshoot, letting her work speak for itself.
In the same interview, the actor reminisced that while he was filming Gunday and 2 States, Alia was simultaneously working on Highway and 2 States. He noted how the release of Highway just before 2 States completely transformed public opinion about her. From being doubted, she quickly became the ideal choice for the role.

Arjun Kapoor revealed that the perfect combination of the right director, timing, and role significantly boosted Alia Bhatt's growth as an actor. He even noticed her transformation during the shooting of 2 States. On the work front, Arjun recently appeared in Rohit Shetty’s Singham Again, while Alia is currently filming Alpha and Love & War.