Indian actor Anupam Kher shared reflections on his friendship with Robert De Niro and his professional journey during a masterclass in New Delhi.
Kher's insights provide a rare glimpse into the intersection of Bollywood and Hollywood, highlighting the personal bonds and professional pressures that shape a long-term acting career.
The conversation took place in February 2024 at the Kala Mandir during the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) [1]. The masterclass, titled “Giving Up Is Not a Choice,” focused on perseverance, love, and freedom [1], [2].
Kher spoke about his relationship with Robert De Niro, describing the Hollywood legend as a close confidant. "He is shy, but once you get to know him, you realise he is a very warm person," Kher said [3]. He further described the bond, saying, "Today I can call him my best friend" [3].
Despite the personal warmth, Kher also views the relationship through a lens of professional aspiration. He said that his competition is with Robert De Niro and Al Pacino [4]. This duality suggests a relationship that balances deep personal affection with a drive for artistic excellence.
Kher's career longevity is marked by a prolific body of work, having acted in 428 films [4]. During the session, he also addressed the complexities of industry relationships, including a mentioned fallout with fellow actor Naseeruddin Shah [2].
The actor used the platform to encourage aspiring artists to maintain their resolve in the face of adversity. He said that the ability to persist is a primary driver of success in the performing arts [1], [2].
“"Today I can call him my best friend."”
Kher's reflections highlight a shift in how veteran Indian actors perceive global cinema, moving from viewing Hollywood as a distant entity to a space for peer-level friendship and competition. By openly discussing both high-level friendships and industry fallouts, Kher frames the acting profession as a balance of extreme public visibility and private emotional volatility.
