Arjun Kapoor recently opened up about the personal and professional struggles he had during his formative years, including his dropping out of college to work as an assistant director on ‘Kal Ho Naa Ho’.
In a conversation with Mashable India, reflecting on how his parents’ separation affected him both emotionally and academically. He shared that he had been a bright student before the family turmoil, but the separation had a significant psychological impact, causing his focus on studies to decline. Arjun admitted that his late mother, Mona Shourie Kapoor, had initially been unhappy with his decision to leave college and begin working in films.
Recounting his early connection to cinema, Arjun reveals that after completing his 10th standard, he spent his summer holidays deeply immersed in films, which soon turned into an opportunity to work on ‘Kal Ho Naa Ho’. His entry into college brought him the feeling of not belonging there. The actor said that he had come to school on his first day wearing shorts, oversized clothes, and carrying a school bag, and he felt out of place. He also shared how he had struggled with his physical appearance during this time, adding to his sense of being a misfit, and said that his weight contributed to his feelings of not belonging.
Arjun credited his father, filmmaker Boney Kapoor, for suggesting that he take a break from college to explore his interests and figure things out.
He explained that the initial idea had been to take a year off and possibly return to his studies, something his mother found hard to accept. However, he said he was privileged enough to make the choice and, at the end, believed it was a turning point that changed his career. Contemplating over his journey, Arjun said the decision of pursuing cinema was pivotal that brought him to where he stands today. Professionally speaking, Arjun was last seen essaying the role of Danger Lanka, the antagonist in Rohit Shetty‘s ‘Singham Again‘.
Arjun Kapoor spotted at the Kolkata airport
