Annu Kapoor turns 55 this Sunday. And it is arguably for the first time in his career spanning almost three decades that the man will be playing his age in a role
Annu Kapoor turns 55 this Sunday. And it is arguably for the first time in his career spanning almost three decades that the man will be playing his age in a role. "It's strange but true. I was 28-30 when I played the 70-year-old juror in Ek Ruka Hua Faisla and the old fuddy-duddy editor Gaitonde in Mr India. But what to do? 
Strugglers can't be choosers," laughs Annu, who will now be seen in what he calls a "fantastic, very interesting role" opposite Priyanka Chopra, in his next film. The Antakshari and Smart Srimati legend talks about Hindi films and why he's seen in so few of them but remembered in all of his roles.
All in character
What's wrong with playing a character artist? I've always enjoyed it. A good character actor with an author-backed role can even clean sideline the actual hero of the film. And you must admit that people still remember me in the few and far between roles that I've done so far, whether it was the beggar mafialord in Gardish or the eccentric editor in Mr India or as Guldasta in Tezaab or the drunkard mama in Chameli Ki Shaadi or the cameo in Raincoat.
Although I must admit that I don't get to do as many exciting roles as I would want to. Sometimes it's like I am still a struggler looking for good work. I feel like shaking up filmmakers and asking them to at least try me out.
What's in a name?u00a0
Yes, my real name is Anil Kapoor. But where would I be with that name today? Anil Kapoor was already an established actor in the industry when I entered it as a struggler. I had to change my name to avoid confusion. So I retained my mother's pet name for me: Annu. But I must say that even Annu Kapoor also became a household name over the years. So it eventually worked for me (smiles).
Filmi business
I run after good work but I'm not desperate. I like to play roles with a depth that will not only challenge the actor inside me, but also fit into my ideology and sense of rightness. Yes, Antakshari was a reality show of sorts, but not like the ones you see on TV today.
I'm proud to say that I set an example; I was able to be a good role model for the youth in those days. It gives me satisfaction to think that none of my work has ever been vulgar or lewd. Fakir of Venice, a festival circuit film in which I have a good role, is waiting to release and I also have plans to produce a film soon. I hope to continue to do things that teach by example.
Who: Annu Kapoor
What: Talking about his dream run in the film industry
Where: At his Andheri office
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