Anil Kapoor Biography: Life Story, Career, Family, Movies & Achievements
Introduction
Anil Kapoor is one of Bollywood’s most enduring stars, known for his evergreen charm, versatile performances, and signature dialogue “Jhakaas!”. With a career spanning over four decades, he has acted in more than 100 films across Hindi, Telugu, and international cinema. From iconic hits like Mr. India, Ram Lakhan, Tezaab, Beta, Virasat, Nayak, to Hollywood projects like Slumdog Millionaire and the American TV series 24, Anil Kapoor remains a global star and a beloved entertainer.
Personal Information
- Full Name: Anil Kapoor
- Date of Birth: 24 December 1956
- Birthplace: Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
- Nationality: Indian
- Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Physical Appearance
- Height: 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm)
- Hair Color: Black (later salt & pepper)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
Early Life & Family Background
Anil Kapoor was born into a Punjabi family in Mumbai. His father, Surinder Kapoor, was a film producer and founder of the famous Anil Kapoor Film Company.
- Brothers: Boney Kapoor (producer), Sanjay Kapoor (actor).
- Nephews: Arjun Kapoor, Mohit Marwah (actors).
- Nieces: Janhvi Kapoor, Khushi Kapoor (actresses).
The Kapoor family is one of Bollywood’s most prominent dynasties.
Education Journey
- Studied at Our Lady of Perpetual Succour High School, Chembur, Mumbai.
- Attended St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, but did not complete his degree as he pursued acting.
Film Debut & Early Career
- First Screen Appearance: Tu Payal Mein Geet (unreleased, 1971).
- Debut Film (Small Role): Hamare Tumhare (1979).
- Lead Role Debut: Woh Saat Din (1983) opposite Padmini Kolhapure.
The film’s success launched him as a promising actor.
Rise to Stardom
In the 1980s and 1990s, Anil Kapoor became one of Bollywood’s top stars with memorable films:
- Mashaal (1984) – Earned Filmfare Best Supporting Actor Award.
- Meri Jung (1985) – Established him as a lead star.
- Karma (1986) – Multistarrer hit.
- Mr. India (1987) – Iconic superhero film, remembered for “Calendar Khana Do!”.
- Tezaab (1988) – With Madhuri Dixit, cemented his superstar status.
- Ram Lakhan (1989) – Evergreen family entertainer.
Bollywood Journey & Iconic Films
- Beta (1992) – Famous for his chemistry with Madhuri Dixit.
- 1942: A Love Story (1994).
- Virasat (1997) – Critically acclaimed performance.
- Taal (1999) – Stylish musical hit.
- Nayak (2001) – Played a common man turned Chief Minister in 24 hours.
- Welcome (2007) & Race series – Reinvented as a comedic and stylish star.
- Dil Dhadakne Do (2015) – Mature role praised by audiences.
- Jugjugg Jeeyo (2022) – Successful family entertainer.
International Work
- Slumdog Millionaire (2008) – Played game show host; film won 8 Oscars.
- Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011) – Appeared with Tom Cruise.
- 24 (Indian adaptation, 2013–2016) – Produced and starred in the hit TV series.
Awards & Achievements
- Filmfare Awards: 7 wins including Best Actor for Tezaab and Beta.
- National Film Award: Best Actor for Pukar (2000).
- Global Recognition: Slumdog Millionaire (2008) ensemble won Screen Actors Guild Award.
- Honors: Recognized for his fitness and longevity in Bollywood.
Personal Life
Anil Kapoor married Sunita Bhavnani, a costume designer, in 1984. They have three children:
- Sonam Kapoor Ahuja – Actress.
- Rhea Kapoor – Producer & entrepreneur.
- Harshvardhan Kapoor – Actor.
Legacy & Influence
Anil Kapoor is celebrated for his ability to reinvent himself across generations. From romantic hero to action star to comedy king to mentor roles, he has done it all. His youthful energy, fitness, and dedication have made him Bollywood’s “evergreen superstar”.
FAQs
Q1: When was Anil Kapoor born?
A: 24 December 1956, in Mumbai.
Q2: What is Anil Kapoor’s debut movie?
A: Hamare Tumhare (1979, small role) and Woh Saat Din (1983, lead role).
Q3: Who is Anil Kapoor’s wife?
A: Sunita Bhavnani Kapoor, married in 1984.
Q4: What are his most famous films?
A: Mr. India, Tezaab, Ram Lakhan, Beta, Virasat, Nayak, Welcome, Race.
Q5: Has Anil Kapoor worked in Hollywood?
A: Yes, in Slumdog Millionaire (2008) and Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011).
