Actors Roundtable | Anupama Chopra | The Hollywood Reporter India

In this engaging roundtable conversation, seven of Indian cinema's most compelling performers - Shabana Azmi, Pratik Gandhi, Kani Kusruti, Anna Ben, Rajkummar Rao, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Vicky Kaushal - come together to discuss the craft of acting and the evolving landscape of Indian entertainment. From the technical aspects of performance to finding authenticity in characters, these artists offer fascinating insights into their creative processes, while candidly sharing their experiences with success, failure, and staying grounded in an industry of extremes.

The discussion takes particularly interesting turns when Rajkummar Rao reflects on the aftermath of Stree 2's massive success, Kareena Kapoor Khan reveals her approach to different genres, and veteran actor Shabana Azmi shares wisdom from her 50-year journey in cinema. Through conversations about the art of comedy, dealing with criticism, and hopes for 2025, these performers paint an honest picture of Indian cinema in transition, emphasizing the importance of good writing, authentic storytelling, and maintaining perspective in an industry driven by box office numbers.

00:00 Introduction
02:10 Welcoming Actors
03:20 Discussion on Authenticity in Acting
05:12 Actors Share Their Experiences
10:50 Pratik Gandhi on Discipline from Theatre
12:58 Kani Kusruti on Adapting to Directors
15:11 Kareena Kapoor Khan on Working with Different Directors
17:24 Shabana Azmi on Delivering Rehearsed Lines
20:35 Anna Ben's Role in "Kottukkaali"
23:50 Falling Out of Love with Acting
27:29 Vicky Kaushal on Complacency in Acting
30:05 Kani Kusruti on Her Acting Journey
33:25 Shabana Azmi on Self-Discovery and Growth
35:48 Actors on Handling Criticism and Validation
42:22 Rajkummar Rao on Box Office Success and Traps
46:15 Vicky Kaushal on Freedom to Play Ordinary Characters
48:50 Kani Kusruti on Impact of Critical Acclaim
52:48 Shabana Azmi on Relationships Enhancing Craft
55:39 Kareena Kapoor Khan on Valuing Relationships over Box Office Results
1:00:09 Discussion on The Art of Comedy
1:04:19 Actors on Staying Grounded
1:10:02 Hopes for 2025
1:16:56 Closing Remarks

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