"People often assume that my grandfather initiated my acting journey but Dadaji never imposed his vision on me, he instead inspired m...
"People often assume that my grandfather
initiated my acting journey but Dadaji never imposed his vision on me, he
instead inspired me with great examples....", Says Actress Seerat Kapoor
On Her Grandfather Roshan Taneja*
One of Tollywood’s most graceful and talented
leading ladies, Seerat Kapoor continues to impress both critics and fans with
her performances and captivating screen presence. But behind her rise lies a
story of self-discovery, discipline and a strong lineage in the performing
arts—Seerat is the granddaughter of the iconic acting Guru, Roshan Taneja, who
has given the industry veteran talents like Naseeruddin Shah, Om
Puri, Shatrughan Sinha, Govinda, Ranbir Kapoor, Anil Kapoor, Rani
Mukherjee, Jaya Bachchan, Shabana Azmi, Juhi Chawla and the list continues.
As the granddaughter of one of Indian cinema’s most
respected acting teachers, there has long been speculation that Seerat’s entry
into films was orchestrated through her family legacy. Addressing this
narrative, Seerat Kapoor opens up about the influence her grandfather had on
her life.
She says, “People often assume that my grandfather
initiated my acting journey, but that’s not the case. I was already training in
theatre, western forms of dance, Indian classical and semi classical
music—forms of expression that felt very natural to me. Acting was a natural
extension of what I was already doing, just through a different medium. Growing
up I was always very deeply connected and attached to Dadaji. How
enthusiastically, in his deep voice he would tell me stories he experienced,
each time we would get together as a family. I remember his peculiar loud
laugh. It lit up our home. I feel extremely fortunate to have had his presence
and guidance by my side at a time, when I was gaining clarity about what I
wanted to pursue in life and decided to formally train under him. My career is
a tribute to honour Dadaji and I hope to only make him proud with the work I
continue to do”
Seerat began her journey in the performing arts
with western classical dance and theatre, gradually expanding her skill set
across mediums. Her decision to formally study acting came from her passion and
her grandfather’s mentorship became a guiding light for her.
“Dadaji never imposed his vision on me, he instead
inspired me with great examples of being, disciplined, humble, holding an
unwavering commitment to the craft and to never let success get to ones head.
Character is recognised by treating everyone respectfully. He taught me not to
take your achievements or failures too seriously and to remain authentic with
my choices. The principles he instilled in me at a very young age, I carry with
me even today,” she added.
For those unaware, Seerat is related to Roshan
Taneja from her maternal side. Seerat’s aunt and mother’s real sister is
married to Roshan Taneja's Son, Rohit Taneja. Seerat shares a very close bond
with her Uncle Rohit and Massi Reena Taneja. Seerat, her elder brother Varun,
first cousins Ranjev and Raanvir Taneja have been inseparable since childhood
and equally loved as grandchildren by, The Taneja Family.
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