He was my guide and mentor: Shekhar Suman

He (Shashi Kapoor) cast me in the most coveted role opposite Rekha in Utsav. It was one of the most unprecedented break for a newcomer. SHEKHAR SUMAN, ACTOR

Shekhar Suman received his first break in the movies because of the late legend, Shashi Kapoor. He was the producer of Shekhar’s debut film, Utsav (1984). Shekhar says, “I couldn’t be sadder. I feel heartbroken and totally devastated. I owe my professional existence in the industry and whatever I have achieved to the man called Shashi Kapoor. He was a selfless man and a great producer.”

Shekhar adds that even though Kapoor went bankrupt, he still went on to produce films he believed in. “He never cared about the box office and made movies such as Junoon (1978), 36 Chowringhee Lane (1981), Utsav and Kalyug (2005). He cast me in the most coveted role opposite Rekha in Utsav. It was one of the most unprecedented break for a newcomer. I can’t imagine anyone giving a role of that importance to a newcomer. It was an expensive film, and he could have cast someone with a known name. But he thought I suited the role, despite the fact that both his sons (Karan and Kunal) were aspiring actors at that time. That speaks volume about him.”

Shekhar walks down the memory lane, and adds, “He was such a fantastic looker; I remember growing up and imitating him to impress my cousins. I wanted to dress up like him and have his hairstyle. I have great memories of the man. I couldn’t believe the fact that he was the man who gave me my first break. So when I heard the news, I was completely heartbroken. I can’t imagine the industry without him. It’s a huge loss for Bollywood. He was my father figure, guide and mentor. I will be forever indebted to him.”