Subha Yogam | Dt 30-10-15

Bollywood actor Shahid Kapoor recently shared insights into his challenging journey to stardom while promoting his upcoming film Deva. Despite being the son of acclaimed actor Pankaj Kapoor, Shahid revealed that his early years in the industry were anything but easy. He disclosed that he had to endure 250 auditions and live in rented homes before he finally made a mark in Bollywood.

In a candid interview with Bollywood News, Shahid reflected on his struggles, saying, “My father is a character actor, and my mother has been a Kathak dancer since she was 15. I’ve always lived in rented houses and had to go through countless auditions. I didn’t come from a place of privilege.” He also expressed how he sometimes felt victimized by his circumstances, highlighting how many others begin their careers with immense advantages, while his own path was defined by relentless hard work and persistence.

Shahid also recalled a difficult period in his life when he was made to feel inferior, even after achieving success. “This happened just before Kabir Singh. I don’t want to get into specifics, but I was made to feel lesser, both as an artist and as an individual. It was a tough phase, but I never accepted it,” he shared. He emphasized that his resilience kept him moving forward, adding, “I’ve learned over 21 years in this industry that I am a survivor and I can overcome any adversity.”

On the professional front, Shahid is gearing up for the release of Deva, where he plays a rebellious cop, opposite Pooja Hegde, who portrays a journalist. Directed by Rosshan Andrrews and produced by Roy Kapur Films, the film also stars Kubbra Sait and Pavail Gulati in pivotal roles. Deva is set to hit theatres on January 31.