Veteran actor Anupam Kher, renowned for his roles as the quintessential onscreen father in iconic Bollywood films including ‘Dilwale Dulhaniya Le Jayenge’, ‘Hum Aapke Hain Koun..!’, ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’, and ‘MS Dhoni: The Untold Story’, recently shared personal reflections about his life journey without a biological child of his own. Despite excelling at portraying father figures on screen, Kher has often contemplated this aspect of his personal life as he advances in age. The celebrated actor married Kirron Kher in 1985. Kirron, before her marriage to Anupam, was married to Gautam Berry and had a son named Sikandar Kher in 1981. Sikandar later took Anupam’s surname after his mother remarried, and like his stepfather, is also carving out a career in acting.
In a candid interview with Shubhankar Mishra, Anupam Kher opened up about the nuanced emotions he experiences concerning the absence of a biological child in his life. He explained, “I didn’t feel it that much before, but now sometimes I do feel like it. I think in the last seven to eight years. It’s not to say I am not happy with Sikander, but there’s a unique joy in witnessing a child grow up, in the bonding that occurs. This is an honest answer that I could have avoided, but I prefer transparency. It’s alright though; it’s not a tragedy in my life. However, there are instances where I feel it would have been a heartwarming experience.”
Over the years, Anupam has felt this particular void more acutely as he reached his 50s.
. He elaborated, “Throughout my career, I was immensely committed to my work. However, as I reached the age of 50-55, this feeling slowly crept in. The sensation of this void largely stemmed from Kirron becoming busier, as well as Sikandar. In my organization, The Anupam Kher Foundation, we work closely with children. Witnessing the daily interactions and growth of my friends’ children further accentuates this sensation. Yet, it doesn’t translate to a loss.”
Beyond his personal reflections, Anupam continues to be a vital part of the entertainment landscape. His latest cinematic endeavor, ‘The Signature,’ saw him bring to life the poignant role of Arvind, an elderly husband, as he navigates the emotional turmoil of his wife Ambika (portrayed by Neena Kulkarni) being on life support after falling severely ill. Under the skilled direction of Gajendra Ahire, ‘The Signature’ delves into the love, sacrifice, and resilience embodied by a devoted husband facing a critical juncture in his life.
Produced by KC Bokadia and Anupam Kher Studio, the film features an impressive ensemble cast including Mahima Chaudhry, Neena Kulkarni, Annu Kapoor, and Ranvir Shorey. Released on the streaming platform ZEE5 on October 4, the movie offers viewers a touching narrative that examines the intricate dynamics of love and commitment in the face of adversity.
Anupam’s journey continues to be an inspiration, both through his contributions to cinema and his introspective view on life. As he shares his personal musings on parenthood, it’s evident that he has embraced this aspect of his life with an open heart and mind. His work with children through his foundation and his unique family dynamic with Sikandar allow him to find joy and fulfillment amidst feelings of what could have been.
In the world of storytelling and beyond, Anupam Kher remains a celebrated figure whose life and career continue to evolve and inspire audiences, proving that family and connections come in myriad forms, each bringing its own special form of enrichment to one’s life.
