Veteran actor Neena Gupta recently revisited her early days at the National School of Drama, sharing memories of working alongside senior actor Pankaj Kapur and the impression he left on fellow students.

Neena Gupta recalls NSD days, says Pankaj Kapur’s dedication inspired aspiring actors

Speaking about her time at the prestigious acting institute, Gupta recalled how Kapur, who was her senior, stood out for his discipline and dedication. She revealed that many students looked up to him as an example of what it meant to be committed to the craft of acting. Describing their first impressions, Gupta said, “When we first came to know about Pankaj Kapur during our time at the National School of Drama, as he was our senior, it was like, ‘Just look at him, he is such a committed actor, he works so much, you should learn something from him.’”

She added that his work ethic left a lasting impact on them as aspiring actors. “We were really impressed by him. We believed that if we wished to be actors, we must learn from him what commitment and hard work are all about,” she shared. Gupta also highlighted that Kapur’s dedication extended beyond his professional life. According to her, he maintained a strong sense of responsibility towards both his work and his family, which further strengthened the admiration his peers had for him.

Both actors later went on to collaborate in the 1983 cult classic Jaane Bhi Do Yaaro, directed by Kundan Shah. The film featured an ensemble cast and has since gained recognition as a satirical take on corruption in India.

Gupta, who has built a long and acclaimed career across films and television, remains one of the most respected performers in the industry. Her recollection offers a glimpse into her formative years and highlights the influence of peers like Kapur in shaping her journey as an actor.

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