Shanaya Kapoor on Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan: “Performing Blindfolded Was Tough”

Soon to-debut in Bollywood with ‘Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan’, Shanaya Kapoor — daughter of actors Sanjay Kapoor and Maheep Kapoor — is playing a sensitive and challenging role in the film. In a recent media interview, Shanaya opened up about her film debut, the casting process, early career struggles, and the emotional and physical challenge of performing blindfolded. Here’s what she had to say...

• How excited are you about your debut film ‘Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan’?

I’m extremely excited! This film is very close to my heart, and its story is unique and special. We worked really hard during the shoot, and now I’m just eagerly waiting for the audience’s reaction. I truly hope people like both my character and the film.

• How did you get cast in this film? Did you go through an audition process?

I had auditioned for another film, but unfortunately, they didn’t like my audition. However, the casting director really liked that audition tape and sent it to Sandy sir (director Santosh Singh). He loved it. One Sunday night, I got a call asking if I was free the next day. I said yes. They told me that Vikrant Massey was doing the film ‘Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan’ and narrated the story to me. The moment I heard it, I immediately said yes.

• When you found out that Vikrant would be your co-star, what was your first thought?

I felt the pressure. I was nervous about whether I could pull it off. My character, Saba, is not an easy one. Performing scenes blindfolded is very tough. My dad always says that taking risks is important — so I took that leap and worked really hard for this role.

• Your path to debut hasn’t been easy. What challenges affected you most mentally at the start of your career?

Yes, it was definitely a tough time — not just for me but for my family as well. It wasn’t something I went through alone; my parents felt it too. But I believe everything happens for a reason. I’ve done a film with Vikrant Massey, and now I’m finally here. Back then, I kept wondering when it would happen, how it would happen, why it wasn’t happening. But today, I’m just happy.

• How did you handle the emotional and physical challenge of performing blindfolded?

Preparation is essential for every character — especially for this one, since we’re representing a specific community. My character’s journey involves learning a lot while being blindfolded for an extended time, so I had to be completely comfortable. I did a 10-day workshop with Rajit Singh. During that time, I did many things blindfolded — I went to the beach, walked around his society’s lobby, even did my morning routine like brushing while blindfolded. Sandy sir and I discussed the script a lot. We even shot every scene on an iPhone so that I could be comfortable once we were on set.

• At the trailer launch event, your father Sanjay Kapoor got emotional seeing your first look. How did that moment touch you?

Yes, dad was very emotional. Even when he watched the film, Sandy sir called me during the interval to say he was crying. I just want to make him proud. My mom is also really happy. We have a poster of the film on our front door. Inside the house, there are balloons and flowers — we’re celebrating. But yes, I also need the audience’s approval.

• Your friend Ananya Panday once said you’re strong and can pave your own way — how do you take that compliment?

(laughs) I’m not strong; I’m actually very sensitive. I think waiting for my debut film over the past 3–4 years taught me a lot. That period helped me mature. That change happened overnight through experience. I learn a lot from Ananya and Suhana (Shah Rukh Khan’s daughter). We talk about our careers, support each other — they’re both very important parts of my life. Friends are essential.

• Has anyone’s mistake or your own misstep ever taught you a deep life lesson?

Punctuality is very important. Besides that, discipline in life is necessary. We don’t have a fixed routine like in regular jobs — sometimes Sundays are off, sometimes not. I believe a disciplined life is essential.

• How do you handle trolling and negative comments on social media?

I deliberately read negative comments and articles about myself because I think it’s my responsibility to know what people are saying. Some things are very personal — like comments on body or dressing — I set those aside. But I take the rest as feedback to improve my craft.

Shanaya’s film ‘Aankhon Ki Gustakhiyan’ has received a positive response for its trailer. The film stars Vikrant Massey in the role of a visually impaired man and is directed by Santosh Singh. Produced by Zee Studios and Mini Films, the movie releases in theatres on July 11.

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