Ishaan Khatter, son of actors Neelima Azeem and Rajesh Khattar and half-brother to Shahid Kapoor, has addressed the pervasive association with his famous sibling and how he navigates his own identity in the film industry. Despite the undeniable connection, Ishaan is charting his own course, emphasizing his work and personal growth over seeking immediate recognition solely based on his lineage.

Before making his debut with Majid Majidi's "Beyond the Clouds" in 2017, Ishaan was often recognized primarily as Shahid Kapoor's brother. He acknowledges that the media attention surrounding his brother's marriage was a turning point. However, he clarifies that this association wasn't something he intentionally sought. He recognizes that initial recognition stemmed from being seen alongside Shahid at events, sparking curiosity due to his connection.

In a recent interview, Ishaan openly expressed his pride in being Shahid's brother. He clarified that he doesn't intend to capitalize on his brother's established fame. He stated that being recognized as Shahid's brother doesn't bother him, and he doesn't have an ego about it. Ishaan emphasizes that his focus remains on his work. He believes in carving his own path and creating his own identity through his performances. He is comfortable with a gradual and steady ascent, prioritizing demonstrating his capabilities through his roles rather than rushing to establish a separate persona.

Ishaan recalls working with Shahid in his childhood, appearing in Mahesh Manjrekar's "Vaah! Life Ho Toh Aisi!" in 2005 and later as an assistant director on Shahid's "Udta Punjab" in 2016. Interestingly, Shahid didn't fully recognize Ishaan's acting potential until he watched "Beyond the Clouds". After watching the film, Shahid acknowledged Ishaan's talent.

Since his debut, Ishaan has taken on diverse roles, showcasing his versatility. His filmography includes "Dhadak," "A Suitable Boy," "Pippa," "The Perfect Couple," and most recently, "Homebound," which premiered at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. He was also seen in Netflix's romantic comedy series "The Royals". In 2025, Ishaan was selected in Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list, marking his growing impact.

Ishaan's approach reflects a mature perspective on navigating the complexities of familial connections within the entertainment industry. While acknowledging and appreciating his relationship with Shahid, he remains determined to establish himself as an individual artist through dedication and hard work.