Veteran actor Anupam Kher, an eminent figure in Indian cinema known for his remarkable roles as the quintessential father in numerous Bollywood hits such as ‘Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge,’ ‘Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!,’ ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai,’ and ‘MS Dhoni: The Untold Story,’ has recently shared profound reflections on a personal aspect of his life. Having married actress and politician Kirron Kher in 1985, Anupam became a father figure to Kirron’s son from her previous marriage, Sikandar Kher, who was born in 1981 and took on Anupam’s surname after the marriage. This familial connection, however, did not come with the experience of fathering a child of his own, a realization Anupam has spoken about candidly, offering a nuanced understanding of his life’s journey.
In a revealing interview with Shubhankar Mishra, Anupam Kher delved into the emotional nuances of not having biological children. He expressed a sense of longing that has become more pronounced in recent years. “Earlier in my life, I didn’t feel it so much, but over the past seven to eight years, there’s been a change,” he admitted. While emphasizing that his relationship with Sikandar is fulfilling and cherished, he remarked on the unexperienced joy of witnessing a child grow from infancy to adulthood. “Seeing the bond between a child and parent flourish is a unique delight, and while I have been lucky to experience it second-hand, there’s a subtle yet profound difference,” he reflected, adding an honest dimension to the dialogue about family and fulfillment.
Anupam Kher further elaborated on the shift in sentiments that became apparent after reaching the age of 50-55. During this period, he was intensely engaged with his career, making a significant mark in the film industry. However, as he progressed through these years, the once-quiet void gradually made itself felt more keenly. “Kirron and Sikandar became increasingly busy with their pursuits, and that left gaps in my life where a traditional paternal experience might have fit,” he noted, contextualizing his feelings within the framework of normal life transitions.
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The actor has dedicated considerable energy towards philanthropic endeavors, especially through his organization, The Anupam Kher Foundation. His work with children has been particularly rewarding, though it sometimes accentuates the experience he missed. “Interacting with children through my foundation or seeing the children of friends brings moments of reflection, but not necessarily a sense of regret or loss,” Anupam explained, illustrating his acceptance and peace with his life’s unfolding.
Anupam Kher’s open conversation has resonated with many, shedding light on a less-discussed aspect of personal fulfillment. It illuminates the nuanced space between personal and societal expectations of family life. His story reflects both individual nuances and shared human experiences, demonstrating how personal narratives can inspire broader dialogues.
On the professional front, Anupam Kher continues to engage audiences with impactful performances. His latest project, ‘The Signature,’ directed by Gajendra Ahire, showcases him in a poignant role as Arvind, an elderly husband coping with his wife Ambika’s (played by Neena Kulkarni) critical health crisis. Released on ZEE5, this film captures the heart-wrenching voyage of love and resilience through life’s unforeseen challenges. Supported by a talented cast including Mahima Chaudhry, Annu Kapoor, and Ranvir Shorey, ‘The Signature’ has been appreciated for its emotional depth and narrative strength.
This openness about his personal life coupled with his professional resilience adds layers to Anupam Kher’s identity, resonating on numerous levels with his audience. His ability to balance personal insight with professional excellence speaks volumes of an individual deeply introspective yet dynamically active in the entertainment industry. Anupam Kher remains a pivotal figure in Indian cinema, not just for his artistic contributions but also for his willingness to approach personal subjects with candid transparency, engaging audiences in profound ways beyond the screen.
