Anil Kapoor, acclaimed for his dynamic roles in both Bollywood and Hollywood, recently reflected on his early career hardships by recalling how he wore Sanjay Dutt’s suits with the help of a designer, highlighting the resourceful ways he and his peers supported each other. This story, which centers on the phrase
“Anil Kapoor borrowed Sanjay Dutt’s suits during early career struggles,”
offers a rare glimpse into the less glamorous side of his rise to stardom.
Facing Early Hardships in the Film Industry
Before Anil Kapoor became synonymous with hit films like Mr India, Tezaab, and Nayak, he encountered significant challenges. Alongside fellow actor Gulshan Grover, Kapoor discussed the difficulties of attending public events and premieres without a wardrobe to match the high expectations of the industry. During the 30th anniversary celebration of Ram Lakhan at Subhash Ghai’s MuktaA2 Theatre, Kapoor openly shared,
One thing I have to say is that the suit that I wore on the premiere, I am sure it was 100% a rented suit. It wasn’t mine.
—Anil Kapoor, Actor
This candid admission resonated with other attendees, including Jackie Shroff and Satish Kaushik, who also reflected on their own struggles at the time. The conversation underscored the uncertainty and financial constraints faced by even the most talented newcomers.
How Borrowing Became a Necessity
Gulshan Grover further illustrated the scenario by expressing similar experiences,
The suit really wasn’t Anil’s. It was Rajeev Mehra’s wedding, and there were five to six functions. Neither Anil nor I had suits. So we both used to go to Akbar (designer) to borrow suits of other actors.
—Gulshan Grover, Actor
The designer, Akbar, became an important figure for these aspiring stars, supplying them with clothing borrowed from better-established actors. Grover revealed that, while he received only shirts, Kapoor was given entire suits originally tailored for Sanjay Dutt, a detail Kapoor humorously confirmed,
I remember. You’re absolutely right. Akbar was kind enough to give me Sanjay Dutt’s suits to wear. They were a little loose, because he (Dutt) was well built and I was single ‘pasli’. But I used to wear his suits.
—Anil Kapoor, Actor
This story not only highlights Kapoor’s resilience but also the camaraderie among contemporaries like Sanjay Dutt and the supportive role of behind-the-scenes professionals such as Akbar. Their willingness to share clothing shows the solidarity that enabled many future stars to survive tough times.
Legacy of Ram Lakhan and Professional Friendships
The film Ram Lakhan, directed by Subhash Ghai, stands out as a testament to the era that forged these friendships and struggles. The movie brought together an impressive cast that included Jackie Shroff, Raakhee, Dimple Kapadia, Madhuri Dixit, Amrish Puri, Anupam Kher, Gulshan Grover, Paresh Rawal, Saeed Jaffrey, and Satish Kaushik. The film remains celebrated as one of 1989’s top box office successes, reflecting the collective dedication of everyone involved, many of whom faced humble beginnings.
Anil Kapoor’s friendship with Sanjay Dutt, forged through these shared experiences, continued through their careers as both appeared together on multiple occasions, further strengthening their bond as contemporaries and collaborators.
Continued Success in Cinema
Having overcome the obstacles of his formative years, Anil Kapoor’s career has flourished. His international recognition includes his role in the Oscar-winning Slumdog Millionaire. More recently, Kapoor appeared in Savi and Fighter in the past year. Industry insiders report that his next projects include War 2 and Alpha, showing that his determination and talent remain undiminished by early hardships.
Anil Kapoor’s reflections serve as an inspiring reminder of the challenges many actors face behind the scenes before reaching the limelight, revealing the realities of rising in Bollywood and the strength found in friendship and resourcefulness.
