at the age of 71 Anupam Kher he remains known for his unwavering dedication to his craft and infectious enthusiasm for his work. Despite acting in more than 550 films, the veteran actor remains keen to challenge himself and explore new creative avenues. Kher broke conventions right from the start of his career with Saaransh, where he took the bold step of playing an elderly man in his debut film, despite warnings that it might lead to typecasting.In a recent interview with ETimes, while talking about his return to theater with his latest play ‘Jaane Pehchaane Anjaane’, Kher reflected on his career and the impact of ‘Saaransh’ on his career. When asked how Mahesh Bhatt The direction remains one of the performances of his career, Kher recalls, “Many people said you are playing the role of an old man when I decided to do the film. I was warned but I thought, if I don’t do this, I’ll be the biggest idiot. I also did something because I wanted to prove that I am a theater actor. I am from National School of Drama, Delhi. So I didn’t have any tension whether I will be able to do this or not.“Looking back, the actor said he doesn’t regret taking that risk. Instead, he feels grateful for how far he has come. Reflecting on the industry’s tendency to mechanize actors, he said, “Even now, even after that, we have a great tradition of typecasting. I broke this typecasting. I was also doing Karma. I was also doing Ram Lakman. I was also doing other kinds of things, because it’s the fear of failure that stops, that makes people ordinary. I don’t have that. I came to Mumbai city with 37 rupees in my pocket. I feel like if you go back to where you started, you always feel like you’re a lot better than where you started. I don’t compare my last year income statement. I said, in 1981, I brought 37 rupees. Therefore, I will always do well.”The actor said that measuring success by one’s beginnings, rather than constantly comparing achievements, has helped keep him grounded throughout his career.On the work front, Kher is busy with the theater production ‘Jaane Pehchaane Anjaane’. He also directed ‘Tanvi The Great’ last year, which received rave reviews.
