Late last year gave Shahid Kapoor what is being considered “the best performance of his career.” Critics and industry folk showered him with praise for his performance in Vishal Bhardwaj’s “Haider.” Yet, asked about his success, the 33-year-old actor credits his contemporaries for inspiring him.
“Barfi! (2012), 'Kahaani' (2012) and 'Bhaag Milkha Bhaag' (2013), among others, inspired me to go out there and make a film like that. I’m sure somebody else felt inspired when I did 'Kaminey' (2008), and that’s how the fraternity works. It’s important for all of us to inspire each other,” says Shahid, who has come a long way since his candyfloss debut, “Ishq Vishk” (2003).
Today, however, he feels that young actors are far luckier. “When I made my debut, there were no new directors, no new heroines, and newcomers didn’t get opportunities. Actors today have no idea how lucky they are,” he says, adding that unlike 10 years ago, the opportunities for “everyone to be seen” are “limitless”.
The other advantage that Shahid feels that young actors have nowadays is that they’re yet to confine themselves to a particular genre or role. “The new generation of actors still needs to find themselves.” Meanwhile, there was strong buzz that the actor was in Delhi to get engaged to a girl from the Capital. However, when contacted, his spokesperson rubbished the rumour.
