For an actor, the run-up to their big debut can be unnerving and exciting, all at once. Especially when it is a dream they have nurtured for as long as they could make sense of the world around them. Having affirmed what she wanted to do from a very young age, for Shanaya Kapoor, the daughter of actor Sanjay and Maheep Kapoor, the journey is off to an ideal start. Her disarming smile and effervescent charm is a tell-all of an upcoming star in the making, waiting to take the world by storm.
Kapoor, in an exclusive chat with Bazaar India, speaks about her dreams finally coming true, her skin routine, favourite travel destinations, and the five things that we’d always find in her bag.
Harper’s Bazaar: It's great to see you, Jahnvi (Kapoor), Suhana (Khan) and Ananya (Pandey) always together, at events, awards, social dos. Tell us more about what female friendships mean to you?
Shanaya Kapoor: I’ve noticed a big change in our conversations; we now talk about life, work, future plans, businesses, and helping each other grow and evolve as people. I think my bond with all my girls has evolved also because there’s this understanding that we’ve grown together and we’re going to be friends for life!
HB: With every passing day, you’re a step closer towards living your childhood dream, your much-awaited debut with Bedhadak. Are you feeling excited or are you nervous?
SK: It’s definitely a mix of both these emotions and more. I cannot put it into words. I can’t wait for it to be showcased on the big screen and have the dream turn into reality.
HB: Was there a particular moment in your life when you decided that you want to become an actor, too?
SK: Honestly, there was no one particular moment. I just always wanted to. It was like second nature almost. Everything in my life, even when I was a kid, revolved around something to do with acting. It’s all I ever wanted to do.
HB: Your social media following and the attention it garners is increasing with every passing day. How do you keep up with the pressure and trolls?
SK: I honestly don’t over think about it too much. I’m just being myself on social media and I think I’ve understood that some people will like me and some people won’t, but it’s my responsibility and in my control to stay true to who I am, and not try to be anything else.
HB: All this hard work ahead of your film, must also mean downtime and holidays. What’s that one place that you love going to, over and over again?
SK: It keeps changing with the mood I’m in for that period of holiday time. Right now, I would say Paris. Their art, culture, music, dance, and fashion is just an experience to witness. The museums are the ultimate experience.
HB: Can you let us in to some of your beauty and fashion secrets?
SK: In winters, it’s more or less the same, though I use lesser quantity of serums, as sometimes, it can dry out my skin a little. I use more moisturiser and apply lip balm throughout the day and at night. In terms of fashion, for me, a chic bag always plays the most important role in levelling up any outfit. My current favourite range of bags is from Miraggio, who I’ve associated with. It has young, fun, and quirky designs, and is suitable for any occasion.
HB: And what would I find in your bag?
SK: I always have a card holder with a few Polaroids of some very special and priceless moments. You will also find a new camera film in the bag. You would also find a pair of sunglasses, some dark chocolates, and a perfume.