Despite being a well-known figure, with a career that spans over 100 films and television shows, Annu Kapoor admits that his relationship with acting has never been driven by passion but rather by the need to survive and earn a living. In a candid conversation with ANI, Kapoor revealed his lack of interest in the world of cinema. 'I never had any interest in acting,' he confessed, adding, 'I did it for the money. My family was poor, and I had no other choice.' This admission highlights the modest origins from which Kapoor rose to fame.

Despite his substantial contributions to Hindi cinema, including memorable roles in films like Mr. India and Beta, Kapoor insists that acting was never a dream; it was a necessity. Kapoor's childhood was fraught with difficulties. He comes from a family deeply rooted in both Punjab and Bengal. His father faced social stigma for being in a 'lower-class' profession, often moving from place to place due to his theatre company. Kapoor speaks of his father's sacrifices with reverence, remembering how he endured great hardship to support his family.

'My father spent his youth living in tents, struggling to make ends meet. He was ridiculed for his profession, and that is why my mother wanted me to pursue a respectable career with a professional job,' Kapoor said, his voice filled with emotion. The mention of his family's struggle through poverty brings a sense of introspection for Kapoor. 'The poor man is always the one who suffers in this world,' he reflected. His family's experience during India's partition left a lasting impact on him, shaping his perspective.

Despite these challenges, Kapoor finds comfort in the values his parents instilled in him. 'My parents had great respect for each other. I grew up seeing that respect and love. It is this core of love that shapes everything I am today,' he shared during a conversation with ANI. Kapoor often reflects on the teachings of his parents, particularly their respect for one another. He recalled an emotional memory of his mother making a dish she used to prepare for his father.

Kapoor's relationship with acting remains rooted in necessity. 'I had no interest in theatre or cinema. I studied till the 10th grade, and out of necessity, because I was poor, we had no money for further studies, I joined my father's theatre company,' he explained. Despite being a cultural icon, Kapoor revealed his disinterest in the modern media landscape. 'I don't watch cinema, TV, or even news channels. I may be foolish, but I am happy in my ignorance,' he said with a chuckle.

For Kapoor, understanding India's people and their mindset goes beyond news cycles and trending topics. 'I know my motherland very well. I've travelled across India, met its people, observed their language, psychology, and culture. You don't need a news channel to understand India's pulse,' he said. Kapoor's travels have shaped his understanding of the Indian psyche. 'Maine 56 ghaat ka paani piya hai (I've drunk the waters of 56 rivers),' he says with pride, alluding to his deep connection with the land and its people.

As Kapoor continues to reflect on life, he reaffirms that his identity is not just tied to his fame but to the values of resilience, respect, and love passed down by his parents. 'What I am today is because of my karmabhumi, Mumbai, where I've lived for 42 years,' he concluded.

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