**Anupam Kher Reflects on Four Decades in Bollywood, Tackles a New Role at 69**
Anupam Kher recently shared a heartfelt reflection on Instagram about his four-decade-long Bollywood journey, revisiting 1984 as a life-changing year. At a time when he was often dismissed as “arrogant and delusional,” director Mahesh Bhatt saw potential in him and cast him in *Saaransh* as a 65-year-old grieving father. The role not only challenged Kher but also became the foundation of his illustrious career, proving his critics wrong and setting him on a path that would define Indian cinema for years.
Reflecting on his early struggles, Kher described 1984 as a “make or break” year. With no connections or backing, he was desperate for a chance to prove himself, navigating daily rejection and self-doubt. Despite skepticism from others, his unwavering determination kept him going. “People thought I was arrogant and delusional,” he recalled, “But I knew that the rage inside me was waiting to tell everyone they were wrong.” Mahesh Bhatt, he noted, believed in him when no one else did, casting him in a role that demanded depth and maturity far beyond his years.
Now, at 69, Kher continues to defy expectations, taking on the role of a 69-year-old aspiring triathlete in his upcoming film *Vijay 69*. As he embraces this challenging part, he reflects on how his journey has been marked by resilience and a love for portraying the common man. From sleeping at train stations and experiencing hunger in his early days to collaborating with Hollywood stars, his story is a testament to persistence. He emphasized that his career has shown him the value of failure, teaching him that setbacks are just stepping stones to success.
In a recent marketing meeting for *Vijay 69*, younger colleagues reminded him of his 40-year milestone, stirring a deep sense of pride. Kher expressed that acting is more than a career for him—it’s his identity. He signed off with a powerful message to fellow dreamers, asserting that age is just a number and encouraging everyone to “dream boldly and achieve the unimaginable.” With his signature “Jai Ho!” he celebrated his journey and thanked his supporters, showing gratitude for a life dedicated to his passion.
