Black Warrant star Zahan Kapoor recalls fond memories with grandfather Shashi Kapoor; ‘Dadaji kept distance…’

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Zahan Kapoor, the grandson of renowned actor Shashi Kapoor, related to stars like Ranbir Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor, started his Bollywood journey in a low-key manner with Hansal Mehta’s Faraaz in 2022. Yet, it was Vikramaditya Motwane’s Black Warrant, being his fifth project, that really drew attention to him. In a recent interview, the actor opened up about his bond with his grandfather, Shashi Kapoor, stating, “My grandfather, affectionately known as Dadaji, preferred to stay away from the film industry at that time.”

In a chat with NDTV, Zahan Kapoor shared memories of frequent disagreements with his grandfather, Shashi Kapoor, over their TV preferences – Shashi Kapoor was a cricket enthusiast, while Zahan preferred cartoons. He also reminisced that during those days, Shashi Kapoor had taken a step back from the film industry.

As a lifestyle aficionado, I find myself fortunate to hail from a household steeped in artistic pursuits rather than mainstream cinema. My father, a prominent figure in advertising, and my mother, Sheena Sippy, daughter of renowned filmmaker Ramesh Sippy, both lent their creative talents to the world of photography. Consequently, my upbringing was immersed in an environment that nurtured a deep appreciation for the arts, rather than films.

When inquired about whether he had always dreamt of being an actor given his family history, Zahan Kapoor made it clear that there was a common misunderstanding that numerous film stars often visited their household. He elaborated by stating that at the time of his birth, his grandfather, Shashi Kapoor, had already stepped away from the entertainment industry.

Zahan made it clear that he had always felt free from the expectation of entering the film industry. In fact, his family discussions often centered around cultural topics, current politics, and societal issues, seldom delving into classic cinema.

Speaking about his last name, Zahan Kapoor mentions that it might offer him an easier path into the field. However, he was always cautioned by his parents about the industry being challenging, emphasizing the importance of hard work.

In Black Warrant, a Netflix original series inspired by the 2019 book of the same name written by Tihar jailer Sunil Gupta and journalist Sunetra Choudhury, Zahan Kapoor skillfully plays the role of Sunil Gupta, a prison guard. Critics have commended his portrayal for its authentic representation of the actual character.

Initially, Zahan embarked on a theatrical career, gaining recognition for his acting skills in productions such as Siachen and Pitaji Please, prior to moving into film.

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2025-03-26 14:23