Renowned veteran actor Pankaj Kapoor has stepped forward to defend his son Shahid Kapoor’s controversial film, “Kabir Singh.” He emphasized that the movie reflects a harsh reality present in society and explores the theme of toxic masculinity. Kapoor believes that cinema serves as a mirror to the world, showcasing realities as they are rather than how we wish them to be.
Entertainment Desk, New Delhi. Esteemed actor Pankaj Kapoor has publicly voiced his support for his son Shahid Kapoor’s successful film “Kabir Singh,” released in 2019. He noted that the film illustrates a genuine truth prevalent in society, aiming to shed light on the issue of toxic male behavior.
Kabir Singh Reflects Societal Realities
In a recent interview, Pankaj Kapoor candidly discussed Shahid’s career trajectory over the past few years, commending his performances in films such as “Haider,” “Udta Punjab,” and “Kabir Singh.” He expressed pride in Shahid’s work, stating, “He has delivered a commendable performance in ‘Kabir Singh.’” When questioned about the film’s portrayal of toxic behavior, which has faced considerable criticism, Pankaj responded, “This criticism is misplaced. Just because toxic males exist in society, it doesn’t mean we should shy away from depicting them in film. The existence of such characters is a reality we must confront.”
Further elaborating, the seasoned actor underscored that the role of an artist is to unveil truths rather than sanitize them. He stated, “Films are meant to represent the world as it truly is, not as we would prefer it to be. ‘Kabir Singh’ portrays a character laden with flaws. However, these imperfections are what make the narrative engaging, often sparking essential conversations about existing societal issues.”
Pankaj Kapoor on Shahid’s Evolution in Haider
Reflecting on Shahid’s artistic journey, Pankaj acknowledged that his son’s true abilities were fully realized through Vishal Bhardwaj’s 2014 film “Haider.” He remarked, “I have long maintained that Shahid possesses a remarkable talent for drama that had not been fully utilized prior to this film. He was often cast in roles of good-natured characters, but Vishal Bhardwaj truly brought out his potential. These transformative films have played a crucial role in shaping the actor that Shahid is today. He has shown wisdom in selecting roles that align with his capabilities, delivering outstanding performances in both ‘Haider’ and ‘Udta Punjab.’”
