With her recently released debut film Bobby Aur Rishi Ki Love Story, Kaveri Kapur has stepped into the limelight, carving her own identity beyond the legacy of her celebrated parents, Shekhar Kapur and Suchitra Krishnamoorthi.
In a candid conversation with ETimes, Kaveri opened up about her journey in the entertainment industry. She spoke about the experience of bringing her first film to life, the invaluable support and influence of her parents, and her personal battles, including her struggle with mental health.
What was your first reaction when you got this role?
I really didn’t know what to expect because I didn’t have any acting experience. In fact, I didn’t even know that I wanted to be an actor before the auditioning and preparation process for this film. So I went into it wide-eyed, not knowing what to expect—excited, nervous. But actually, through the process of filming this film, I realized that I have a passion for acting.
How similar or different do you feel from the character of Bobby in real life?
I relate to Bobby in terms of her family dynamic. Bobby is also quite mysterious—she is who she is, she says what she wants to say. I’m like that. Although we are quite similar, I think Bobby is a little more… I’m also very honest, but I think I’m a little gentler, softer as a person. She can be very sassy—not mean, but just sassy and witty.
You said that you didn’t initially know whether you wanted to be an actor. When did that change?
I grew up really shy. As I got older, I realized maybe my shyness was something I developed and not an inherent part of my personality. As that shyness started to leave me, I developed an interest in acting—or I would say curiosity. Then I got the opportunity and started auditioning. Through that process, I realized that I really enjoyed it and wanted to pursue it.
What was the most exciting part of shooting this film? Do you have any memorable moments from the set?
This was my first experience as an actor on a set, so everything was exciting! Every single day when we wrapped, I would be sad. When we finally wrapped the whole shoot, I cried so much. It was the best time—I felt like I was exactly where I was supposed to be. Even though it was hard, grueling work, every day was exciting because I was falling in love with the craft.
Did you go through any formal training for acting since this was a new experience for you?
I did formal training after the film. It was only through the filming process that I realized I wanted to be an actor. Of course, there was a lot of preparation for the film, which I would also consider acting training. But if you’re asking about courses or formal study, I did that only after shooting the film to refine my craft.
How was your experience with Vardhan? Since you both come from film families and are close, how was it working with him?
It was amazing! I couldn’t have asked for a better co-star and first co-actor. He’s my best friend. He gave me so much support and advice. It’s not easy to do this, let alone be on set for the first time with no prior experience. Vardhan and I developed a really close bond. He’s a brilliant actor, and I learned a lot from him. He also helped me through some tough moments on set.
Like what?
First of all, I was away from home. I would have moments where I felt out of place, and he was the one I turned to. I’m very uncomfortable with dancing, and I would often go hide and cry in the middle of dance rehearsals. Vardhan would come to me, calm me down, and say, “It’s okay, you got this.” We became best friends. He also helped me with my insecurity about my acne at the time—it was a big struggle for me.
Since you both come from film families, did you share any stories or advice from your backgrounds?
Yes, of course! Vardhan’s grandfather gave him lots of advice, and my parents did the same for me. My dad and Vardhan share a strong passion for cinema, and Vardhan often turns to my dad for guidance. Even though we have different approaches to acting, we grow by sharing them with each other.
Did you seek your father’s advice while preparing for the role?
Yes, my dad always tells me that acting is not “acting”—it’s “being.” That helped me feel natural in every scene. I would break down the story and character and think, “This is real life—how would I feel? How would my emotions show up on my face and body language?” It helped me become the character rather than “act.”
How did your parents react when you decided to step into the industry?
They were very happy! I think they always wanted me to at least give it a try because they saw something in me—whether it was my emotional intelligence or creativity. My mom was especially happy because she had been encouraging me for years, and I kept refusing. She was like, “Finally!”
Who are you closer to, your father or your mother?
Both, but in different ways. My dad is like my best friend—we talk about relationships and philosophy. My mom and I have a classic mother-daughter dynamic—she’s my fierce protector and takes care of me. I turn to either one depending on the situation.
You were very young when your parents separated. Did that take a toll on you?
It wasn’t the separation that affected me as much as the relationship itself. I was happy when they got divorced. But yes, it took a toll, especially because it was so public. You get exposed to things a child wouldn’t normally have to deal with. I have struggled with my mental health as an adult because of it.
When did you find your ground?
I don’t think I have yet. I still struggle with my mental health—it’s a process. I have OCD and I’m still healing. But I’m happy and grateful, and I know it takes time.
Were there moments during your debut film where you felt nervous or overwhelmed?
Of course! Especially at the beginning, I would get nervous about certain scenes or dance sequences. Luckily, everyone on set was understanding and supportive.
You also composed and sang a song in this film. Did that help with your nervousness?
Not really. They were separate processes. But I’m excited that my debut film features a song I composed and sang.
Your parents have been your biggest support system. How does it feel to have them cheering for you?
It feels amazing. Not every artist has that kind of support. Their encouragement is why I can pursue this. I feel very blessed and grateful.
Your father recently received the Padma Bhushan. What was going through your mind?
I was so proud—I cried, I celebrated! No one deserves it more than him. His commitment, passion, and curiosity for life and cinema are unparalleled. I feel very proud to be his daughter.
Would you like to work with your father in a film? Have you discussed it?
Yes! I’m going to be in a feature film soon, and I’m very excited.
What are your ambitions as an actor?
I don’t plan my life anymore—I just want to do good work. I want to challenge myself, go on creative adventures, and help make the world a more compassionate place. Right now, I’m just going with the flow.
That sounds like a great approach.
Yeah, sometimes it’s best to surrender to life rather than put pressure on yourself.
Do you have any upcoming projects?
Yeah, I have Masoom sequel. We started prepping for it. The prep starts very soon, actually. There are some other projects in the pipeline which I can’t talk about yet. But yeah, hopefully, there are many, many projects for me to do in the near future.
