Mumbai, February 24 Anil Kapoor has played diverse roles throughout his 40-year career, and the Bollywood star says his remarkable journey in cinema continues to inspire and challenge him.
Known for films such as “Welcome”, “Ram Lakhan”, “Mr. India”, “Nayak”, “Tezaab”, “Taal” and “Dil Dhadakne Do”, Kapoor stars as a retired soldier in his next film "Subedaar", and he said the project tested him with its action sequences.
"I am very grateful to the audience, the media, and all my friends, co-stars, leading ladies, and directors. It has been absolutely wonderful and fulfilling. I never thought I would do so many films and be here with all of you. I am full of gratitude. It's not just my journey, but also the audience's journey," he told reporters here.
The film, which will be released on the streaming service on March 5, is directed by Suresh Trivedi, known for "Tumhari Sulu" and "Jalsa".
Described as an “adrenaline-fueled action drama”, the film follows subedar Arjun Singh as he grapples with civilian life, navigating a strained relationship with his daughter and societal dysfunction.
"When this role was offered, I knew there would be a lot of action. I was a little apprehensive before starting the shoot. There were some issues with my legs, but I didn't tell Suresh," Kapoor said.
"But when the camera rolls, I could do everything. I couldn't believe it. I could do action, horse riding, bike riding, car driving, and even work in the dust. Sometimes, I would work for 16 hours. Sometimes, I would work from 7 am to 7 pm, and wrap up by 3 pm. I don't know what happens when the camera rolls, I could do anything," he added.
The 69-year-old actor said his love for challenges and the camera drive him to give his best. Kapoor added that when Trivedi narrated the story to him, he accepted the role immediately, as he recognized that it would be the most challenging film of his career.
"I have done it with all my heart and soul. I worked very hard. I hope you all like the film and our work," he said.
Actor Khushbu Sundar, who is returning to Hindi cinema after four decades with the film, credits Kapoor for her success in the south industry. Kapoor and Sundar worked together in the 1985 film “Meri Jung”, which was Sundar’s debut film.
“Life is a complete circle. You come back to where you started. I started with Hindi films. I started with Anil ji, ‘Meri Jung’, and I am back here, sharing this with Anil ji. It's wonderful. Anil ji had a huge contribution in building my career in the south," she said.
Sundar said she is looking to do substantial roles in Hindi cinema.
“It's great that I'm back here, and all I can say is that I hope this marks the beginning of my return to Hindi cinema and doing some very good, substantial films with great roles," she added.
Actor Mona Singh will be seen as an antagonist in the film. The actor, who earned critical praise for her role as a cop in "Kohrra 2", said "Subedaar" gave her sleepless nights.
“I always try not to repeat my characters... I feel very lucky and grateful to have friends like Suresh. When I was offered this role, I found it very challenging, as I had not done anything like this before. Her name is 'Babli', but she is not bubbly at all. I like to do things that surprise me, challenge me, and give me sleepless nights. I felt that while playing this character," she said.
The film, written by Trivedi and Prajwal Chandrashekar, also features Radhikka Madan, Saurabh Shukla, Aditya Rawal, and Faisal Malik in key roles.
“Subedar” is produced by Abundantia Entertainment, Opening Image, and Anil Kapoor Film & Communication Network Pvt. Ltd. It will premiere exclusively on Prime Video in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu across India and over 240 countries and territories worldwide.
