Annu Kapoor is primarily celebrated as an actor. But there are several other facets to him that many are unaware of.
We use the saying, "Jack of all trades, master of none", in a negative light, implying that one who dabbles in multiple fields lacks expertise in any. But you see, versatility is a strength, and hence that judgment is not only unfair but also quite insulting. And the interesting part is: that's not even the full quote. It's "Jack of all trades, master of none, though oftentimes better than a master of one". Yes, you read that right!
Especially in the entertainment industry, those who excel in multiple arts are more valuable than those who specialize in just one. And Annu Kapoor is a prime example of that spirit - a true multifaceted talent who does everything with equal brilliance.
(Credit: dr.annukapoor)
Today, as the award-winning artist turns 69, let's shed light on the many facets of his career.
As already mentioned, Annu Kapoor is best known as an actor, who - without an iota of doubt - can portray almost any kind of character on the screen. He made his debut in 1982 with 'Aadharshila (during his days in Delhi), and in the professional film industry in Mumbai in 1983 with 'Mandi' (Shyam Benegal directorial). An alumnus of the National School of Drama, Kapoor is a master at method acting and leaves no stone unturned in his performances.
Over the years, the actor has showcased his skills in over a hundred films, including 'Mr. India', 'Tezaab', 'Ram Lakhan', 'Ghayal', 'Sardar', 'Aitraaz', '7 Khoon Maaf', 'Vicky Donor', and 'Jolly LLB 2' among others. For his work in 'Vicky Donor', he won a Filmfare Award, an IIFA Award, a National Film Award, and a Screen Award (all in the category of Best Supporting Actor).
Besides acting, Kapoor is a director and a producer as well. As a director, he is primarily active in theatre in both Delhi and Mumbai. He has directed several plays over the years, bringing his unique vision to the stage.
On the other hand, he has directed a feature film as well, titled 'Abhay (The Fearless)', starring Nana Patekar, Moon Sen, and Benjamin Gilani) for the Children's Film Society, India. It won the 1995 National Film Award for Best Children's Film.
As a producer, Kapoor has made a musical in Mathura, titled 'Ek Sunhari Shyam'. Also, he has produced a musical talent contest for children, 'Aao Jhoomein Gaayen', and a Bengali-language musical talent-hunt show, 'Gaan Gaao Taaka Naao'.
It's not only about plays and movies, Annu Kapoor has time and again brought his storytelling capabilities to several other mediums as well. He hosts a radio program on 92.7 Big FM, called "Suhaana Safar with Annu Kapoor on 92.7 Big FM", where he shares anecdotes of the Golden era of Bollywood along with unforgettable melodies of that era. The show's tagline is, "Filmy Duniya Ki Kahi Ankahi Kahaniya".
Moreover, besides appearing in numerous television shows as an actor, Kapoor has also hosted several shows over the years. He gained widespread acclaim for hosting the show, 'Antakshari – The National Challenge', which aired from 1993 to 2006. 'The Golden Era – With Annu Kapoor' is a nostalgia-driven TV show about Indian cinema and its legends.
(Credit: CRED)
Annu Kapoor is a trained singer, which makes him suitable for hosting or judging various music reality shows on television. Throughout his career, he has showcased this skill in various ways (live or playback).
(Credit: RoCKing Launda)
Recalling his first playback singing experience, Kapoor shared on the sets of Sa Re Ga Ma Pa in 2024, "I recorded my first ever playback song for Bappi Lehri ji, and I got to sing both female and male versions of that song. After a few days, I was called to check the final song and I was wondering when there are legends like Nadeem and Shravan how can I give my review or opinion on their song? That’s when they decided to call Didi (Asha Bhosle) as well. So, when she came to the studio, I got a call, and they told me that Asha ji was asking who recorded my part of the song as well. That is how I met the great Asha Bhosle for the first time. And I remember, when she started recording in the studio, she asked me if she was singing properly, can you imagine?”
Well, Annu Kapoor is a legendary artist whose oeuvre is an inspiration for us. Today, we wish him a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
