How Did Shanaya Kapoor's Parents Support Her Acting Aspirations?

Mumbai, July 14 (NationPress) Shanaya Kapoor, who recently made her cinematic debut with “Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan,” has shared insights into how her parents—father Sanjay Kapoor and mother Maheep Kapoor—have been her most candid critics.

In a special interview with IANS, Shanaya revealed that her father has always provided straightforward critiques. Throughout her preparation process, whenever she shared practice videos, he was quick to offer unfiltered feedback, highlighting both her strengths and areas for improvement.

Shanaya expressed, “Rather than feeling nervous, my dad is my most honest critic. Whenever I prepared or sent him videos, he always gave me clear feedback—pointing out what I needed to refine and what I was excelling at. My mom also shares her thoughts; she tells me, ‘If something isn’t working, I would let you know. If it’s good, I’ll say that too.’ They’ve always been forthright because they recognize that this industry is unforgiving, and I must put in significant effort.”

“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and I feel incredibly thankful and fortunate that it has come my way. Now that it has, I am determined to make the most of it. I need to establish my place in this industry and gain the audience's acceptance. My parents understand that this journey demands time and dedication. That’s why, at home, they maintain complete honesty with me. As they always say, ‘If you’re not prepared, we need to inform you.’ They’ve been brutally honest, even when it’s challenging to hear—because that’s what I owe to this profession.”

Shanaya also reflected on the responsibility of being an actor, stating, “You owe it to the audience. You owe it to the camera when you’re in front of it. It’s a privilege to engage in something that will endure forever. It’s a surreal and beautiful experience. Sometimes, after a scene is completed, you realize that your performance is captured eternally—and that thought is overwhelming.”

She added that this is precisely why her parents have been so candid with her. “They had to be, and they have been—and I’m genuinely grateful for that,” she said.

The starlet concluded, “My parents have consistently supported me throughout my journey.”

After hearing Shanaya, Vikrant Massey remarked, “It’s not solely about being supportive during tough times—what matters equally is speaking the truth when it counts. I’m confident that if something isn’t right, they wouldn’t hesitate to address it for her benefit.”

He continued, “As actors, we’re often surrounded by yes-men. But having someone—especially at home—who genuinely cares, who holds up a mirror and tells you the truth to facilitate your growth, is an immense blessing. I believe that’s what true love embodies.”

“Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan,” directed by Santosh Singh, premiered on July 11.