Arjun Kapoor believes that in an industry where every Friday can change an actor’s fortunes, being resilient is what helps one navigate the ups and downs. In a conversation with us, the actor, who recently played a baddie in Singham Again, talks about how he keeps it real and finds inspiration during conflicting moments of his life.

Arjun, who doesn’t shy away from embracing his vulnerable side, feels that this has been a crucial factor in his growth. “Though most people consider it a problem, I think your vulnerability is your strength. However, being vulnerable and accepting is what helps you grow and become a better person and, therefore, allows you to make better choices. Our profession is such that it’s easy to be delusional and be in denial.”

The actor, who has seen his fair share of highs and lows in his career, believes that being an actor means you have to be ready to sign up for a long race. “I’ve always been a practical person. So, when a film doesn’t pan out the way it should have, I try to understand what I can do better next. Nobody has a 100 per cent success rate here. A lot of people don’t realize that it’s a very long race. You’re not winning, you’re not trying to win, what you are doing is you are trying to survive and create your own space. If I wasn’t practical, I wouldn’t have made such an extreme choice (being a part of Singham Again). I know my truth, I’m not chasing delusion, and I think that really helps. But yes, being resilient in this profession is important.”

While some thought that Arjun kept a low profile because his films before Singham Again didn’t do well, he thinks otherwise.

“People don’t pay much attention (to you) when your films don’t work. I always knew that. It was not like I’d run away. I’d not even switched off to that extent. However, people want to listen to you when you are doing well. And that’s normal. Success bring you more attention. Failure makes you fade from people’s memory,” he shares.

Ask Arjun how he took care of his mental well-being while he was going through a tough phase, and he says, “The reality is I didn’t speak about it then because I didn’t want to cry about it. It happens to everyone. Sometimes, it lasts a year or two, sometimes a film or two, and sometimes it extends a little longer. You are confused and conflicted, but after the darkest night comes the brightest dawn. You have to believe in that and keep working because the payoff isn’t going to be today. The idea for me to sit today and talk about the past and not celebrate the present would be terrible. Sometimes, we get too caught up in our heads and become negative. But if you look around and find inspiration, it will motivate you.”