By RUBY ZAIDI
Zahan Kapoor, the talented actor who recently garnered widespread acclaim for his portrayal of jailer Sunil Kumar Gupta in Vikramaditya Motwane’s Netflix series Black Warrant, is making waves in the industry. While his remarkable performance has earned him accolades, many are unaware of his illustrious lineage. Zahan is the grandson of the legendary Bollywood icon Shashi Kapoor, a member of the first family of Hindi cinema. This makes him a second cousin to some of Bollywood’s most prominent stars, including Ranbir Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Karisma Kapoor.
In a candid conversation with the media, Zahan opened up about his connection to the Kapoor family and shared an amusing anecdote that left everyone smiling. Reflecting on his younger days, Zahan admitted, “I have a funny story to share, though it’s a bit embarrassing. Back in the day, I didn’t have much of an idea about Ranbir Kapoor before his debut. Of course, I knew Chintu’s uncle (referring to Rishi Kapoor), but our families were somewhat separate, and I was living in my little world as a young kid.”
He went on to explain, “It was around the time when Ranbir made his debut with Saawariya in 2007. I was still in school, and honestly, I didn’t fully grasp the significance of him entering the industry. It was only later, as I grew older and began appreciating cinema more deeply, that I truly recognized his talent and contributions.”
Zahan also spoke about how his relationship with his cousin has evolved over the years. “It’s a special feeling to be able to share my work with my family now,” he remarked. “I remember watching Rockstar twice in one day when it was released. Back then, we didn’t have the kind of one-on-one relationship where I could just call him up and talk about his performance. But things have improved now, and we share a better connection.”
The actor’s growing bond with his family members is just one part of his inspiring journey. Zahan is now earning widespread recognition for his exceptional performance in Black Warrant. The series is based on the real-life experiences of Sunil Kumar Gupta, a former superintendent of Tihar Jail, and delves into the multifaceted and often harsh realities of prison life. Through his role, Zahan portrays not just the challenges faced by Gupta but also the complex political, emotional, and human dynamics that unfold within the confines of a prison.
Black Warrant is directed by Vikramaditya Motwane, who is known for his nuanced storytelling and ability to create compelling narratives. The series has received critical acclaim for its authenticity and for shedding light on a side of life that is rarely explored on screen. Zahan’s performance, in particular, has been praised for its depth and emotional resonance, marking him as a rising star in the industry.
As Zahan Kapoor continues to carve his path in Bollywood, his humility and dedication to his craft are setting him apart. While he may come from one of the most revered families in Indian cinema, his focus remains on building a legacy of his own—one performance at a time. With Black Warrant, Zahan has not only proven his acting prowess but also shown that he is ready to take on challenging and meaningful roles in his career ahead.
