Interview : Sanjay Kapoor: I’m happy that I keep getting chances to reinvent myself!

Sanjay Kapoor is regarded as an actor in Hindi cinema who has consistently reinvented himself over the years. He made a distinct mark in the 1990s with films such as Prem, Auzaar, Raja and Sirf Tum. Known for his consistency, maturity and versatility, Sanjay Kapoor continues to resonate with audiences even today. In recent times, he has delivered noteworthy performances in films like Mission Mangal, The Zoya Factor, Bloody Daddy and Merry Christmas. Embracing the OTT space with equal finesse, he has made a strong comeback through projects such as The Fame Game, Murder Mubarak and several other web ventures.

With years of experience behind him, Sanjay Kapoor has seamlessly transitioned from light-hearted roles to intense, layered and complex characters. His upcoming film, Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders, features him in a pivotal role. In this context, he spoke to our Sr Editor Keertikumar Kadam. Here are some excerpts from the conversation:

In Murder Mubarak, you were seen in a lighter, more playful space, whereas Raat Akeli Hai appears dark and intense. What difference did you personally feel between these two roles?

There is a very clear difference. Just by watching the trailer of Raat Akeli Hai, one can sense how serious, tense and emotionally intense the atmosphere of the film is. In Murder Mubarak, we were also solving a case, but the tone there was lighter, quirky and more entertaining. Here, however, everything is far more layered—the intensity of each scene, the actors’ body language, the tempo of the dialogues—everything carries a deeper, darker weight.

Every actor approached their role with utmost seriousness, and that added a certain gravitas while working on the film. The genre, treatment and performance style of these two films are completely different, and for me, Raat Akeli Hai turned out to be a very fresh and enriching experience.

Coincidentally, people are talking about an “Akshaye Khanna 2.0” and “Sanjay Kapoor 2.0” phase. How do you look at this?

(Laughs) Honestly, I don’t know whether it’s 2.0 or 3.0, but if I have to sum it up in one phrase—it’s God’s grace. I’m continuously getting good opportunities, and more importantly, chances to work with fine directors. That, for me, is the biggest blessing.

Over the last six or seven years, a certain pattern has emerged in my career. When a capable director—someone like Honey (Trehan) calls me, I silently pray, “I hope the role is good… even if it’s small, let it be impactful.” Because the value of a role is never about its length, but about its substance.

There are times when you work for 25 days and still feel unsatisfied, and then there are occasions when just six or seven days of shooting give you the fulfillment of a hundred days. The opportunities I’m receiving today, the trust of directors, and the chance to work with such committed teams—that is my real reward. Labels like “Sanjay Kapoor 2.0” don’t concern me. I’m simply happy that I keep getting opportunities to prove myself all over again.

Sanjay ji, do you take fitness or grooming tips from Anil Kapoor? You still look remarkably young and handsome. Is there a ‘secret diet’ followed by the Kapoor family?

(Laughs heartily) Well, maybe Anil takes tips from me! Why does everyone assume that I’m the one taking tips from him? (Laughs) To be honest, no one in our family really takes tips from anyone else. In fact, we Kapoors are great food lovers—we enjoy good food, sweets, everything!

That said, there is one thing I always follow: discipline. If you live a disciplined life, take honest care of yourself, and keep your mind clear and positive, it naturally reflects on your face. There’s no superfood or secret diet involved.

It’s all about a regular routine, moderation, and being honest with yourself. There’s no scientific mystery here—just simple, balanced and disciplined living. That’s the real ‘secret recipe’.

By Keerti Kadam