Mumbai, India – The 1982 film “Shakti” continues to be hailed as a remarkable casting achievement, featuring the exceptional talents of iconic actors Amitabh Bachchan, Dilip Kumar, and the emerging Anil Kapoor. During a recent appearance on the popular television show “Kaun Banega Crorepati,” Kapoor revealed the lack of recognition he received despite being part of such a star-studded ensemble in “Shakti,” where he portrayed Bachchan’s son.
Reflecting on his experience, Kapoor shared, “My role was such that there was a scene in the beginning of the film. And then there was a scene after Dilip Kumar shoots your character. People would walk in late to watch the film so they would miss my scene. And after you got shot, people would go out of the theatre.” The audience’s reaction was so dismissive that they would often joke, “Why should we watch the film now? The man we came to watch, Amitabh Bachchan, is dead now.”
Interestingly, before Kapoor’s breakthrough role in Shekhar Kapur’s “Mr India” in the late 1980s, the script for the film was initially offered to Amitabh Bachchan by renowned screenwriters Salim-Javed. However, Bachchan declined the role, believing that the concept of an invisible man would not resonate well with his devoted fans. Despite Salim-Javed’s confidence in Bachchan’s voice, the decision was made to seek someone else for the lead.
Eventually, Kapoor rose to stardom with his portrayal of the invisible hero in “Mr India,” and he and Bachchan went on to share credits in various films. However, it was only in Honey Irani’s 2005 film “Armaan” that they both had significant roles together.
Currently, Kapoor is receiving much acclaim for his performance in the film “Fighter,” in which he stars alongside Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone. The action-packed movie has already grossed an impressive 140 crore rupees in India within just seven days.
Kapoor’s journey from being disregarded in “Shakti” to becoming a prominent figure in Indian cinema exemplifies his remarkable talent and resilience. Despite initial setbacks, his dedication and hard work have earned him a well-deserved place among the industry’s elite.