‘Dynastic rule in politics and cinema is over’
The actor's son Harshvardhan will start shooting for his debut film this weekend.
Roshmilla Bhattacharya (MUMBAI MIRROR; November 8, 2014)

On Thursday, Anil Kapoor and wife Sunita were spotted at the Siddhivinayak temple. Following the quiet mahurat of their son, Harshvardhan's debut film, Mirziya, the couple had gone there to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha.

"It has been a special year so far, not just for me but also for my daughters--Rhea as a producer and Sonam as an actress. And now my son Harsh's film has also taken off. It was time to pay my respects for all the good that has happened," the proud papa told Mirror.

He admitted that he was "nervous and anxious" about his son's debut. Would he have been more at peace had he launched Harsh under his banner instead of handing him over to Rakyesh Omprakash Mehra who is giving a contemporary cinematic twist to the tragic love story of Mirza and Sahiban? "We are a family of strong, independent individuals who will only go for what they believe is best for them. We are always there to support each other, but we don't let others influence our decisions. We don't owe anything to anyone. It's not important that I'm his father or he's my son. Harsh is an individual with a mind of his own and he probably felt that what came from outside, was the most exciting offer he had got. It was entirely his decision to do Mirziya and we are there with him all the way," said Anil.

Even before Harsh's film rolls, comparisons are being drawn with the Anil of Ram-Lakhan which understandably does not please dad. "Times have changed and so has the mindset of the younger generation. Dynastic rule in politics and cinema is over. Just because the father is successful doesn't mean the son will be too. Everyone has to prove his worth," insisted Anil, adding that such comparisons are regressive.

Talking further to Mirror on the subject, he pointed out that he had been approached for a book on his life. The proposal didn't appeal to him, because he believes the past is passe. "People are not interested in what you have done but only in your last few films," he reasoned. "It's the present that matters and what you are doing next, not just for my son but for me too."