Boney Kapoor, renowned for his contributions to Indian cinema as a filmmaker, recently reflected on a challenging period in his life when he faced significant financial difficulties. Recounting this time, Kapoor emotionally recalled the unwavering support of his late wife, Sridevi, who stood by him as a pillar of strength.
Kapoor’s journey in the film industry has been marked by both professional success, with iconic films such as Mr. India and Wanted to his credit, and personal upheavals that often found their way into the gossip columns. Following his divorce from Mona Shourie, with whom he shares two children, Arjun and Anshula, Kapoor married Sridevi in 1996, and they were blessed with two daughters, Janhvi and Khushi.
In a candid conversation with Komal Nahta, Boney Kapoor opened up about the turbulent period when he faced severe financial setbacks, acknowledging that it was primarily a result of his own indulgence.
Despite the stress and challenges, Kapoor remained resolute, expressing confidence in overcoming the crisis. Reflecting on the broader context of such trials in the film industry, Kapoor emphasized the commonality of such experiences among passionate filmmakers and actors, drawing parallels to industry stalwarts like Raj Kapoor and Amitabh Bachchan. He said,
“It was my mistake so, of course, I was the one who bore the brunt of it. I was stressed, of course, but I was confident that I would pay it all off. It took a little longer but I’ve paid everybody off. Plus, who doesn’t go through such problems? In our industry, everyone from Raj Kapoor to Amitabh Bachchan has gone through ups and downs. It happens, especially, to those filmmakers who are passionate. But the fact is, that they overcame it. I’ve also overcome it, and at the same time, I’ve made up my mind, I’ll remain passionate, but I won’t become indulgent.”
However, what stood out in Kapoor’s reminiscence was his deep gratitude towards Sridevi for her unwavering support during those trying times. He acknowledged her steadfastness, highlighting her understanding and trust in him, even amidst financial difficulties that stemmed from miscalculations rather than misconduct.
“God supported me, my family supported me, and Sri supported me in a very big way. She was like a rock. She understood me. She knew that I hadn’t used the money for the wrong reasons. It wasn’t like I lost money in gambling or anything. I didn’t do anything wrong. And the mistakes I made, I understand them. If you don’t have support from your wife, you’re…”
Beyond the financial struggles, Boney Kapoor also shared his unfulfilled wish to purchase a dream home for Sridevi in Hyderabad, as a token of appreciation for her significant contributions to the Telugu film industry. Additionally, he reflected on his role in guiding Sridevi and other family members in their acting careers, seeing it as both a duty and a collective endeavor for their family’s well-being and success.
“Maine har wo cheez ki hai jo mujhe theek lagti thi. I thought it was my job and my duty, and I did that thinking that I was doing it for myself. If I guided Anil, it was not just for him, it was for us. If I guided Sri, it was not just for her, it was for us. If I guide my children today, whether it’s Arjun, Janhvi, or Anshula, as a matter of fact, Sanjay, whatever guidance they need, whatever my experience can give, it is just there.”
