Keeping Up With The Kapoors

If Anil and Harshvardhan Kapoor had their own reality TV show, this is what the pilot would look like.

- Shivangi Lolayaekar

Think your old man is overwhelming? Try being Anil Kapoor’s son. The actor, who turned 60 last year, is Bollywood’s Benjamin Button; the poster guy for the Fountain of Youth. Anil Kapoor does not stop. Never has. He’s vibrant, and a showman who will outshine you – especially in front of the camera. Even if you’re his son. At the GQ shoot, he’s ever ready with his game face – squinting eyes, puffed-out chest and perfectly coiffed hair – and exercises his thundering voice at regular intervals like he’s bracing for battle. Anil exudes likeability and a sense of humour, even when he’s being self-indulgent. He’s in the business of entertaining and he will win your vote.

Harshvardhan Kapoor reacts to his father’s antics with a sheepish laugh, sometimes covering his eyes with his hands, at other times indulging his father’s flamboyant public persona. He waits for Anil to make the First move, and plays off his body language for every shot. Harshvardhan needs to be reminded to smile, to loosen up. The young actor admits he’s an introvert who enjoys his own company. But don’t be fooled by his reserve when it comes to the family business. One movie old, the 26-year-old is confident about what he wants: unique roles by sharp directors – even if it means dismissing his father’s experienced opinion. As long as he can stand by his movies 10 years later, without feeling embarrassed.