September 3rd is a special day for Shakti Kapoor, a versatile actor in Bollywood. Born Sunil Kapoor in Delhi in 1952, Shakti Kapoor carved a niche for himself in Hindi cinema in both villainous and comic roles. His exceptional acting style, comedic talent, and powerful portrayal of antagonists have made him one of Bollywood's most memorable faces. On his birthday today, we take a look at his life, struggles, career, and achievements.
Shakti Kapoor's Birth and Family
Shakti Kapoor was born in Delhi into a Punjabi Hindu family. His father owned a clothing business and strived to provide his son with a normal life. From childhood, Shakti was passionate about acting and making a career in films.
After completing his education at the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), he entered Bollywood. In his early days, he played many small roles but did not achieve significant success. His struggle began to pay off when he was cast as the villain in Sanjay Dutt's film "Rocky." Sunil Dutt, Sanjay Dutt's father, felt that his birth name "Sunil Kapoor" was not suitable for the role, and thus, he gave him the name Shakti Kapoor.
Beginning of Film Career
Shakti Kapoor made his Bollywood debut in 1977 with the film "Khel Khiladi Ka." In the initial years, he played several minor roles. He established his identity in 1980-81. His roles as a villain in the films "Qurbani" and "Rocky" became immensely popular among audiences.
In 1983, Shakti Kapoor played villainous roles in films like "Hero" and "Himmatawala." His antagonist characters in these films left a deep impression on the audience's hearts. His acting style and dialogue delivery made him a favored actor for villainous roles.
Memorable Dialogues and Comic Style
In the 1990s, Shakti Kapoor also showcased his talent in comic roles. He entertained audiences in films such as "Raja Babu," "Chaalbaaz," "Tohfa," "Insaaf," and "Andaz Apna Apna." He received the Filmfare Best Comedian Award for his role as Nandu in "Raja Babu."
His dialogues and comic timing are so memorable that mimicry artists still imitate his dialogues today. His famous dialogues include:
- "Aao Lolita" (Tohfa)
- "Main Nanna Sa Chota Sa Bachcha Hoon" (Chaalbaaz)
- "Nandu sabka bandhu, samajhta nahin hai yaar" (Raja Babu)
Shakti Kapoor's Contribution to TV and Multilingual Films
Shakti Kapoor was not limited to Bollywood. He also acted in Malayalam, Bengali, Odia, and Assamese films. In 2011, he participated in Bigg Boss 5 and maintained his popularity among viewers. He also worked in films like "Aasmaan Se Gira Khajoor Mein Atka" with his sister-in-law Padmini Kolhapure. Furthermore, he is active as a brand ambassador.
Personal Life
Shakti Kapoor is married to Shivangi Kapoor. Shivangi is the elder sister of actresses Padmini Kolhapure and Tejaswini Kolhapure. They have two children – son Siddhanth Kapoor and daughter Shraddha Kapoor, who today are making their own mark in Bollywood with their acting. Shakti Kapoor lives with his family in Juhu, Mumbai.
Controversies and Challenges in Shakti Kapoor's Life
Shakti Kapoor's life has not been without controversies. In 2005, in a video released by India TV, he was allegedly accused of seeking sexual favors. Following this incident, the Film and Television Producers Guild temporarily banned him. However, the guild later lifted the ban.
Additionally, a gang had planned to kidnap him, but the plan failed due to demands for a high advance payment. Shakti Kapoor has denied all these allegations, stating that he was framed.
Awards and Honors
Shakti Kapoor has received and won several Filmfare nominations in his career. Some of the key achievements are as follows:
- 1984: Mawaali – Best Comic Role (Nomination)
- 1985: Tohfa – Nomination
- 1995: Raja Babu – Best Comic Role (Winner)
- Andaz Apna Apna – Nomination
- 1997: Loofer – Nomination
- 1998: Judwaa – Nomination
Dialogues and Characters Still Alive in Audience's Hearts
Shakti Kapoor proved that success can be achieved in both villainous and comic roles. His acting style, dialogue delivery, and comedic talent have earned him a distinct place in Indian cinema. His dialogues and characters are still alive in the hearts of the audience today.
When we celebrate Shakti Kapoor's birthday on September 3rd, it is not just a celebration of his birth. It is an occasion to remember his contribution through his incredible acting, comedy, and villainous roles. Shakti Kapoor has shown that challenges can be overcome with hard work, dedication, and creativity.
