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Pankaj Kapur: From NSD to Stardom, a 5-Decade Journey
19 Apr
Summary
- Kapur nearly missed the Maqbool role due to initial hesitation.
- He suggested a powerful visual detail for his character Abbaji.
- Kapur lost his NSD job over his role in the film Gandhi.
Pankaj Kapur, an actor with a career spanning five decades, recently shared reflections on his journey in showbiz during an event in Nagpur. He recalled his early days at the National School of Drama, where his father's advice to not look back guided his path. Kapur's powerful portrayal of Abbaji in Vishal Bhardwaj's 'Maqbool' was a key discussion point. Initially hesitant, Kapur agreed to the role after discussions, even suggesting that Abbaji, though short, be surrounded by imposing bodyguards to signify his authority.
Appreciating his son Shahid Kapoor's acting choices, Kapur described him as the best actor in his age group, commendably picking courageous roles. He also spoke about Kundan Shah's cult classic 'Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro,' emphasizing that such unique films are rare and its success was a testament to hard work with limited resources.
Kapur also disclosed that his employment at the National School of Drama's Repertory Company ended when he chose to fulfill his commitment to play Pyarelal in Richard Attenborough's 'Gandhi' over a theatre festival, leading to his termination.
