Anil Surinder Kapoor is one of Bollywood’s most enduring stars. Over more than four decades, he has built a versatile career in Indian films, television, and some international work
He is known for his energy, youthful appearance, dedication to his craft, and ability to adapt to changing trends in cinema.
From humble beginnings, he rose to fame through landmark films such as Mr. India, Tezaab, Ram Lakhan, Beta, and more recently Animal and JugJugg Jeeyo.
He has also ventured into television, international cinema, and production. This biography traces his life, achievements and ongoing contributions to entertainment.
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Table of Contents
Anil Kapoor’s Biography
Anil Kapoor was born on December 24, 1956, in Chembur, Mumbai, into a Punjabi family deeply connected to the film industry.
His father, Surinder Kapoor, was a film producer, and his mother, Nirmal Kapoor, was a homemaker. Growing up in a modest household, Anil was exposed to cinema from an early age, often assisting with small tasks in the industry while nurturing dreams of becoming an actor.
He studied at Our Lady of Perpetual Succour High School in Chembur and later attended St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai, though his focus gradually shifted more towards films than academics.
Despite facing financial challenges during his youth, he remained determined and passionate, which helped him push through initial struggles and eventually step into acting.
Personal Life
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Marriage & Love Story: Anil Kapoor met Sunita Bhavnani (also known as Sunita Bhavnani / Sunita Kapoor) through friends. Their relationship began gradually; they dated for years before marrying on 19 May 1984. 1
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Children: They have three children:
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Sonam Kapoor (actress) – born 1985
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Rhea Kapoor (film producer) – born 1987
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Harshvardhan (Harsh Varrdhan) Kapoor – born 1990, also works in acting.
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Personality & Values: Known for being hardworking from a young age, positive attitude, and keeping close ties with family. He has often spoken about how staying grounded, loving his work, and being open and honest with his children help him stay balanced.2
Film Career & Rise to Stardom
Beginnings
Anil Kapoor’s acting journey began with small roles:
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Debut: He first appeared in Hamare Tumhare (1979) in a small role.
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He also worked behind the scenes early on and accepted minor parts. Over time, he got leading roles in regional films (Telugu, Kannada) and in Hindi.
Breakthrough & Major Hits
A few films that established him in Bollywood:
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Woh Saat Din (1983) – one of his early successes as a lead.
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Mashaal (1984) – earned critical praise; Kapoor won his first Filmfare Award for Best Supporting Actor for this film.
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Meri Jung (1985) also helped cement his position.
Then came his era of stardom in the late 1980s and 1990s:
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Mr. India (1987) – one of his iconic roles.
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Tezaab (1988), Ram Lakhan (1989) – both huge hits that defined his hero persona.
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Beta (1992) – another landmark film, won him Best Actor at Filmfare.
Work in the 2000s onwards
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Even after the 90s, Kapoor found ways to adapt. He took on supporting roles in multi-star films like Welcome (2007), Race trilogy, etc.
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He ventured into international audiences with Slumdog Millionaire (2008) as the host-in-quiz show Prem Kumar. This role increased his recognition outside India.
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He played special roles in Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011) etc.
Television and Streaming
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He starred in 24 (India) as Jai Singh Rathod (anti-terrorism series).
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He did The Night Manager (Hindi adaptation) as a powerful philanthropist / antagonist kind of role. 3
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Awards, Honors & Recognition
Anil Kapoor has won many awards, both for leading and supporting roles.
| Award Type | Wins | Nominations / Notable Among Them |
|---|---|---|
| Filmfare Awards | 7 wins | Several nominations (≈10) including Best Actor and Supporting Actor |
| National Film Awards | 2 wins | Recognized for strong performances such as in Pukar etc. |
| IIFA Awards | 5 wins | Trends include wins for supporting role etc. |
| Other Awards | Many others (Screen Awards, Zee Cine, Producers Guild, etc.) |
Some recent award-highlights:
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Best Supporting Actor for JugJugg Jeeyo.4
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Supporting Actor for Animal nomination/win in recent Filmfare / IIFA etc.
Happy Birthday, Akshay! Wishing you boundless energy, health and happiness forever. Keep ruling hearts on and off screen! @akshaykumar ✨ pic.twitter.com/ICBMdu18jG
— Anil Kapoor (@AnilKapoor) September 9, 2025
Recent & Upcoming Work
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Anil Kapoor has signed on with the YRF Spy Universe. He will play the head of RAW in War 2, Alpha, and Pathaan 2.
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He is involved in The Night Manager (Hindi series) where he plays a powerful philanthropist / antagonist role, known for blending charm and menace.
Statistical Snapshot
Here is a table summarizing key stats in Anil Kapoor’s career.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Years Active | Since ~1979 till present (over 45 years) |
| Number of Films | More than 100 films in Hindi plus regional / international work |
| Major Awards Won | ≈ 40 total awards across Filmfare, National, IIFA etc. |
| Major Recognitions | Known for several iconic film roles; international recognition via Slumdog Millionaire; major presence in the Spy Universe now |
Unique Qualities & Legacy
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Youthful energy & fitness: Even as he grows older, Anil Kapoor is often admired for how physically fit and energetic he remains. He rarely gives the sense of being “past his prime.”
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Versatility: He has played everything from romantic hero, action star, comedy roles, villainous or character roles. He has successfully transitioned into mature roles without losing public interest.
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International exposure: Few Bollywood actors of his generation have such visibility in internationally acclaimed films. Slumdog Millionaire and Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol are examples.
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Staying power: Many actors fade with time. Kapoor has adapted by choosing roles that match his age and strength, working in ensemble casts, or in strong supporting roles when needed.
Challenges & Changes
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Like many actors, Anil Kapoor had ups and downs. After major successes in the 80s and 90s, there were films that did not do well. But he bounced back.
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He has had to adapt to changing audience tastes: action, romance, comedy, realism. He also moved into television and streaming to stay relevant.
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FAQ’s
Who is Anil Kapoor’s father and what was his influence?
His father Surinder Kapoor was a film producer. Growing up in a film-oriented family gave Anil early exposure to the industry, understanding of the workings behind the scenes, and helped him get his first chances in minor roles.
How many children does Anil Kapoor have and what do they do?
He has three children: Sonam Kapoor (daughter, actress), Rhea Kapoor (daughter, film producer), and Harshvardhan (son, actor)
What are Anil Kapoor’s most famous films?
Some of his most iconic films include Mr. India, Tezaab, Ram Lakhan, Beta. More recent ones that got wide attention are Slumdog Millionaire, Animal, JugJugg Jeeyo.
Has he won national awards?
Yes, he has won National Film Awards (India’s top film honor) twice.
What international work has he done?
He played the quiz show host in Slumdog Millionaire (2008), appeared in Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol (2011), and has been part of the international series The Night Manager.
What are his upcoming projects?
He is slated to appear in War 2, Alpha, and Pathaan 2 as part of the YRF Spy Universe, playing the RAW chief. Also involved in The Night Manager Hindi series.
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