Anubhav Sinha recalls Shammi Kapoor's surprising reaction to villain role offer: 'How Dare You Call Me For This?'

Anubhav Sinha and Shammi Kapoor

Renowned director Anubhav Sinha recently reflected on his early days in the television industry, sharing heartwarming and humorous stories from his time working with the legendary Shammi Kapoor. Sinha, who later went on to make impactful films like Thappad, Mulk, and Article 15, started his career in TV, and one of his first major projects involved casting the iconic Kapoor in a negative role for the show Shikast. This encounter became a memorable moment in Sinha's career, with the veteran actor initially taken aback by the offer.

During a recent interview, Sinha recalled the moment when he approached Shammi Kapoor for the role of an antagonist. Kapoor, known for his larger-than-life persona and his energetic, romantic roles in films, was not accustomed to being offered such a part. When Sinha called him for the role, Kapoor’s reaction was candid and filled with disbelief. "How dare you call me for this serial?" Kapoor famously retorted. Sinha recalled how the legendary actor was genuinely astonished by the idea of playing a villain. It was not something he had been associated with, and the notion of stepping into a negative character seemed far removed from the heroic roles that had defined his illustrious career. However, despite his surprise, Shammi Kapoor agreed to take on the challenge of playing the antagonist, but with a condition. He set firm boundaries for his working hours, stating that he would leave the set by 4 or 5 PM each day. This request, while unusual, was a sign of his established comfort and discipline in his later years, and the director respectfully honored it.

One of the most touching and revealing stories Sinha shared was about Shammi Kapoor's generosity and commitment on set. After filming the pilot episode of Shikast, there was a scene that required capturing the reflection of actor Vineet Kumar in a Mercedes. At the time, Kapoor was sitting behind Sinha and, when he saw the shot, he expressed his appreciation for the work being done. When Sinha reminded him that it was already 10 PM, Kapoor, whose car was being used in the scene, responded with his characteristic humor, saying, "Gaadi meri hai" ("It’s my car"). Despite it not being his shot, Kapoor stayed on set out of gratitude and support for the creative process, demonstrating not only his warmth but also his understanding of the effort and dedication that went into filmmaking.

This anecdote, according to Sinha, spoke volumes about Kapoor's generosity and love for the craft, especially as he had no personal stake in the scene being filmed at that late hour. Shammi Kapoor’s willingness to stay, despite his initial reservations about the role, left a lasting impression on Anubhav Sinha. "He was such a kind soul," Sinha remarked, reflecting on the veteran star’s positive attitude and the bond they shared during their work together.

These stories, while humorous, paint a picture of Shammi Kapoor as a professional who remained deeply dedicated to his craft, even as he moved beyond the spotlight of his prime. The experience marked a significant chapter in Sinha’s career and served as a testament to Kapoor’s integrity, not only as an actor but as a human being who believed in supporting his colleagues and appreciating their work.