Anil Kapoor speaks at FICCI: on fear, authenticity, and global lessons

Anil Kapoor at FICCI

The always vivacious Anil Kapoor demonstrated why he still inspires generations at a recent FICCI event.

The megastar, who has delighted audiences all over the world for over 40 years, talked openly about the values that have guided his incredible journey: authenticity, discipline, and fear.

“I look for stories and filmmakers who scare me — that’s what drives me,” he admitted with a smile, summing up the fearless attitude that has defined his career. For Kapoor, fear isn’t something to run from — it’s fuel. From Mr. India to Mission Impossible, he’s always sought challenges that push him out of his comfort zone and keep him on his toes.

“Sometimes, you know, being in front of the international unit of Mission Impossible, then I did 24, which is going to, you know, for Netflix, which I’m very scared, because it’s something which I’ve never done. It’s a look which I’ve never done in my entire career. And so I’m scared,” he said, recalling how every new project still makes his heart race.
That fear, he added, is his biggest motivator. “These are the things which make me insecure or get scared… and that drives me to do my best.”

Kapoor also opened up about what he’s learnt from working on international productions. “I think internationally, the value for time is very important. The prep… you prepare hard, you train hard, and you fight easy. That’s always been my motivation.”

Also Read: Anil Kapoor’s most memorable films that prove his lasting legacy in Indian Cinema

He recalled his time shooting for 24, where the preparation was so intense that he worked with dialect coaches for hours and battled nerves before every new scene. Representing India on such a large platform, he said, came with immense pride — and pressure. “And they know that I am, you know, kind of a recognized face in India. I’m an actor in India. So, obviously, you feel that — Hindustan ki izzat toh bachaani hai na?”

Through all of it, Kapoor said, one thing has kept him grounded — being true to himself. “Be yourself. Don’t fake it. You should be the way you are.”

As he prepares for his upcoming major motion picture, Subedaar, which is helmed by Suresh Triveni, Anil Kapoor is demonstrating that experience and age are not obstacles to ambition.