Tusshar Kapoor, a seasoned Bollywood actor, has recently opened up about his 25-year journey in the film industry, shedding light on the unique challenges and pressures that come with being the son of a legendary actor, Jeetendra. In an exclusive interview, Kapoor candidly reflects on his experiences, offering a rare glimpse into the life of a star kid and the expectations that come with it.
The Weight of Family Legacy
One of the most intriguing aspects of Kapoor's story is the pressure he felt growing up in a film family. As the son of Jeetendra, he was constantly reminded of the need to live up to a certain standard. "There is an expectation. There is a baggage. There is a lot of unsolicited advice that comes your way — that because you are from a film family, you have to be a certain way," he reveals. This pressure, he explains, is often overlooked, as people tend to focus on the challenges faced by outsiders. But for star kids, the pressure to maintain a certain image and be in the news is very real. "I was told, 'You've got to be acting when you're not acting also.' But I couldn't deal with it. I used to ignore it and just focus on my work," he shares, highlighting the constant need to perform and be in the public eye.
The Introvert's Journey
Kapoor's journey is also one of self-discovery. He describes himself as an introvert, a stark contrast to the stereotypical image of a star son. "I'm very unlike what one would expect a star son to be like. I just focused on work. What I do in my personal life, how I am in my personal life, should not be anybody's business. It was hard, but I had to block that noise out. Over the years, I've learned that," he says. This struggle to define his own identity and find his place in the industry is a common thread among many star kids, who often feel the need to prove themselves beyond the shadow of their family names.
The Power of Ensemble Films
Kapoor's recent success in 'Welcome To The Jungle' is a testament to his ability to shine in ensemble films. Working alongside a massive cast of 34 actors, he admits to feeling anxious about standing out. But the overwhelming response from the audience has been both rewarding and gratifying. "It's really overwhelming but very gratifying. People are loving the characters, and they're going again and again to watch it. It's spreading like wildfire," he says, highlighting the power of ensemble films to bring people together and create a unique experience.
The Value of Family and Career
Looking back on his silver jubilee in the film industry, Kapoor reflects on the valuable lessons he has learned. He misses the way films were experienced during the early years of his career, where the entire process of releasing a film was a journey in itself. "What I miss about that era is that you lived the entire process of releasing a film. Whether it was a success or a failure, you got to experience the journey and see it through properly," he says. This perspective on the film business is a reminder of the importance of family and the unpredictable nature of success and failure.
The Golmaal Franchise and Beyond
Kapoor's journey is also one of gratitude. He looks back fondly at the 'Golmaal' franchise, which has been the "lifeline" of his career. He credits director Rohit Shetty for believing in him and allowing him to shape his unique character across the films. "I'm very grateful to Rohit Sir for giving me the opportunity to be a part of the 'Golmaal' franchise. It has been a great journey, and I'm excited to return for the upcoming fifth instalment," he says. This excitement about the future is a testament to his passion for the craft and his desire to continue pushing boundaries.
In conclusion, Tusshar Kapoor's journey is a fascinating exploration of the pressures and expectations that come with being a star kid in Bollywood. His ability to navigate these challenges and find his own voice is a testament to his resilience and determination. As he continues to shine on the big screen, Kapoor's story serves as a reminder of the power of self-discovery and the importance of staying true to oneself in the face of external pressures.
