Here’s a bold statement: Despite being one of the most accomplished actors in the industry with over 500 films to his name, Anupam Kher claims he’s never been invited to a single year-end roundtable interview. And this is the part most people miss—he believes these coveted spots are reserved for what he calls 'mediocre actors.' But here's where it gets controversial: Kher doesn’t hold back, declaring, 'Acting-wise, I’m better than all of them. I even run an acting school.'
In a recent candid conversation on Unfiltered with Samdish, the veteran actor and director opened up about his four-decade-long journey in the industry. When asked if he feels undervalued, Kher’s response was both insightful and provocative. He argues that recognition often depends on who’s doing the approving. Here’s the kicker: He believes a select group within the media and industry wields the power to shape careers—deciding who gets the spotlight and who doesn’t. 'There’s a section of people who decide, ‘We don’t want Anupam Kher at our roundtables,’ he said. 'They’ve never invited me, and frankly, it’s their loss.'
But Kher doesn’t stop there. He recently confronted a senior editor, asking, 'Why do you get so excited talking to mediocre actors?' While it bothers him that some don’t want to see him succeed, he’s learned to rise above it. 'The day you realize you don’t need everyone’s approval is the day you become unstoppable,' he shared. This philosophy even inspired him to write a play about his failures, boldly showcasing them to the world. 'At that point, you stop caring about what people think,' he concluded.
Now, here’s the question: Is Anupam Kher right about the industry favoring mediocrity, or is there more to the story? Do roundtable interviews truly reflect talent, or are they influenced by hidden agendas? Let’s spark a conversation—what do you think?
