Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

Return of Arjun Kapoor

The Bollywood actor reflects on his journey and superb 'Singham' success

Return of Arjun Kapoor

Arjun Kapoor

Getty Images

ARJUN KAPOOR’s cinematic journey has mirrored the drama of the characters he has portrayed, with highs, lows, and unexpected twists defining his 12 years in the industry.

The latest chapter in this rollercoaster came with his turn as the menacing antago - nist in Singham Again, a mega-budget action entertainer. His widely praised villainous role stood out against a star-studded cast that in - cluded Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, Ranveer Singh, Deepika Padukone, and Tiger Shroff. Kapoor is now looking forward to the next phase of his career, where he hopes to ex - plore diverse roles ranging from heroic leads to dark antagonists.


Eastern Eye spoke to the versatile actor about his journey, Singham Again success, future plans, and passion for cinema.

How do you reflect on your acting journey?

It has been 12 years since Ishaqzaade, and I didn’t know what my fate would be when the film was made. I believed in myself and worked hard, keeping my head down. With Singham Again, receiving this kind of love and reaction, I can say it has been an amaz - ing rollercoaster. You learn to enjoy the ups and downs of a profession when you re - mind yourself how much you love it. That has always been central to my journey.


Tell us more about that.

I constantly remind myself of my love for making and being part of films. I wouldn’t have it any other way. You learn from the past and aim to im - prove, but it has been a fulfilling jour - ney. I have gained valuable lessons, made great friends, explored many fac - ets of life, and experienced different emotions. It has been enriching.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned about yourself in the industry?

I’ve discovered that I am practical, resil - ient, and thick-skinned – qualities you need to survive here. I’ve also realised that my vul - nerability is a strength, not a weakness. Un - derstanding that has been a game-changer.

Would you have done anything differently in your journey?

In hindsight, we all wish we could change some things. But at the time, every decision felt right. I have never made choices under pressure, so I wouldn’t say I regret anything.

What has kept you motivated during difficult times?

My love for filmmaking and being on set has always kept me motivated. I feel like a child on set, and the excitement of telling stories has never faded.

How did you feel when Singham Again was offered to you ?

I’m thrilled that people connected with Danger Lanka. It’s not easy for an antagonist to garner cheers and love, but the audience’s validation is incredibly gratifying. When I signed on to the film, I knew its scale and importance. I loved the franchise and was determined to justify the trust Rohit Shetty and Ajay (Devgn) sir had placed in me. I simply needed the right film and role, and Singham Again provided exactly that.

What was it like stepping out of your comfort zone with this villainous role?

I believe the hint was always there that this is a space the audience enjoys seeing me in. Whether it was Ishaqzaade, Gunday, Aurangzeb, Sandeep Aur Pinky Faraar, or Ek Villain Returns, I have often explored darker or greyer shades. This role, however, was a complete antagonist – fully unhinged, with no moral compass. As an actor, it was both fascinating and different to embody such a character.

What was the experience of shooting this role like?

While shooting, I avoided overanalysing and relied on the conviction of a mainstream director like Rohit Shetty. Looking back now, it was a significant learning experience because it was such a risk. I took it on without knowing how the audience would respond. I believed I could deliver, and I think it has come together well – though it’s still too early to fully assess it.

How much does the positive response to your performance in Singham Again mean to you?

It means a great deal because I want to tell more stories, take on many more films, and continue evolving as an actor who entertains and connects with audiences. The audience’s validation and appreciation for my work in a film of this scale energises me to move forward, knowing that taking risks can pay off.

What is the plan going forward?

What excites me most is being one of the youngest actors to dive into such a dark space. I’m thrilled to have this avenue open to me and look forward to more interesting roles like this. At the same time, I want to explore different spaces, play fun characters, and avoid being typecast. I want to embrace positive, negative, and grey roles across diverse genres – all while enjoying the process.

Is it true that you want to produce and direct films as well?

Absolutely. I want to do both, but only when the time, subject, and circumstances are right.

What can you tell us about your forthcoming projects?

At the moment, I’m exploring new opportunities. It’s an exciting time, and I’m taking in all the love that I’ve received. I plan to sit down and carefully analyse the options I have, and I hope to share clarity soon.

What kind of movies do you love watching as an audience?

I enjoy watching all kinds of films. That’s why I’m so obsessed with movies. I’ve always been a fan of Guy Ritchie’s work and have a soft spot for his films.

Will you make a New Year’s resolution?

No, I don’t believe in making resolutions on a specific day. As they say, man proposes, and God disposes. I prefer focusing on ticking off goals daily, weekly, or monthly, rather than waiting for the new year. Resolutions can set you back if they don’t work out, so I believe in consistent progress instead.

What inspires you as an actor today?

What inspires me is the ability to live vicariously through the roles I play and to connect with audiences on an emotional level. Whether it’s making them laugh, cry, or feel fear, the idea that my work can touch lives is deeply fulfilling. The process of entertaining and connecting is what keeps me going.

Tell us more about that.

Every piece of work evokes an emotional response, whether big or small. It’s overwhelming when you meet people from different parts of the world who have been impacted by your films.This profession is incredibly enriching – you get to experience diverse cultures, personalities, and stories while continually learning and evolving. So, it’s quite a wellrounded profession that way.

Why do you love cinema?

Cinema has the power to connect people emotionally, no matter the language or origin of the story. Watching a film in a theatre with 300 others creates a shared experience – laughing, crying, or connecting as a community. That’s the beauty of storytelling – it brings people from all walks of life together, resonating with one shared narrative at that moment. It’s an unmatched experience.

More For You

UK Asian Film Festival 2025 Explores Themes of Longing & Belonging

The UK Asian Film Festival 2025 explores themes of love, identity, and belonging through South Asian cinema

gatty image

UK Asian Film Festival celebrates stories of longing and belonging in 27th edition

From May 1st to 11th, the UK Asian Film Festival (UKAFF) returns for its 27th edition, bringing an interesting line-up of films and events to London, Leicester, and Coventry. This year’s theme, “Longing and Belonging,” explores the universal human search for connection, identity, and purpose through South Asian cinema.

As the longest-running South Asian film festival in the world, UKAFF has always championed female voices and challenged patriarchal norms. This year’s selection continues that mission, presenting stories of displacement, love, tradition, and resilience.

Keep ReadingShow less
Thudarum Review Round-Up: Mohanlal Delivers a Comeback Masterclass

A scene from Thudarum showcasing Mohanlal and Shobana’s mature on-screen chemistry in this slow-burn family thriller

Instagram/thudarummovie

'Thudarum' review round-up: Mohanlal returns to form in a dark, emotional ride that’s winning hearts

Director Tharun Moorthy’s Thudarum has drawn attention not just for its gripping storyline, but for bringing back the Mohanlal audiences have longed to see: an actor rooted in emotion rather than spectacle. With critics praising both the writing and performances, Thudarum has emerged as a memorable addition to Mohanlal’s long filmography, with reviewers calling it a return to form.

Across the board, reviewers highlight how the film presents Mohanlal as Shanmugham (nicknamed Benz), a humble taxi driver and former stuntman who now lives a quiet life in a Kerala village with his wife, played by Shobana, and two children. His prized possession is his old black Ambassador car, a gift from a mentor which becomes central to the plot when it’s unknowingly used, setting off a chain of devastating events.

Keep ReadingShow less
Sreeleela

Sreeleela’s rise from South cinema to Bollywood stardom has captivated audiences across India

Instagram/sreeleela14

Can Sreeleela fill the big Bollywood void?

It is no secret that Bollywood is facing a talent drought. While established stars continue to dominate screens, there is a clear gap when it comes to younger actors making a strong mark.

In the past, each generation delivered a crop of newcomers who injected fresh energy into the industry. That pattern has stalled in recent years, with fewer young actors making a lasting impression. Into this space steps Sreeleela, a fast-rising actor from the South who has begun to attract serious attention in Hindi cinema.

Keep ReadingShow less
Florence Pugh

Florence Pugh stuns on the red carpet at the London premiere of Thunderbolts, hours before a robbery unfolded outside the after-party venue

Getty Images

Masked robbers target Florence Pugh's van after 'Thunderbolts' premiere in London

In a shocking turn of events after the London premiere of her latest film Thunderbolts, actress Florence Pugh found herself at the centre of a robbery. The 29-year-old was attending an after-party at 180 Strand, accompanied by family and friends, when thieves targeted one of the five Mercedes minivans used to transport her and her entourage.

Pugh, joined by her grandmother Pat and actor boyfriend Finn Cole, had just arrived at the venue following the screening of the Marvel blockbuster at Leicester Square. As they went inside, two masked men on a motorbike approached one of the parked vehicles, smashing its windows in the process. The thieves swiftly stole a laptop and a mobile phone from the van's middle seats before fleeing the scene.

Keep ReadingShow less
Justin Bieber and Hailey Bieber

Justin Bieber breaks his silence on marriage rumours and health concerns following viral Coachella video

Getty Images

Justin Bieber clears the air on Hailey Bieber relationship rumours and addresses health struggles

Justin Bieber has been forced to address ongoing rumours about his marriage to Hailey Bieber and his personal health after weeks of speculation. Recently, a video of him smoking at the 2025 Coachella Festival went viral, causing concern among fans and reigniting gossip about his relationship.

In response, Justin took to Instagram to set the record straight, writing a candid note about his feelings. He spoke out against the harsh judgement he's faced, acknowledging his flaws and how they shape his perspective. "They treat me like a** out here, but I remember that I am flawed too and God forgave me," he shared. The 31-year-old singer explained that while he doesn’t always handle negativity perfectly, remembering his own imperfections helps him rise above the criticism.

Keep ReadingShow less