A Father’s Pride: Sanjay Kapoor Fights Back Tears at Daughter Shanaya’s ‘Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan’ Launch

The air at the grand trailer launch of ‘Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan’ was thick with anticipation and emotion on Tuesday as debutante Shanaya Kapoor stepped into the spotlight, but it was her father, veteran actor Sanjay Kapoor, who truly stole hearts with his visibly overwhelmed state. Fighting back tears, Sanjay Kapoor’s profound pride in his daughter’s cinematic debut was a poignant highlight of the evening.

The much-awaited trailer of ‘Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan,’ which marks Shanaya Kapoor’s entry into Bollywood, was unveiled amidst a star-studded gathering. Shanaya, looking resplendent, was joined by her parents, Sanjay and Maheep Kapoor, on stage. While Shanaya exuded grace and excitement, it was her father who struggled to maintain his composure, his voice trembling as he addressed the media and guests.

“I have been working for the last 30 years, but I have never been this nervous,” Sanjay Kapoor confessed, his eyes welling up with emotion. He quickly added, “Before tears flow down my ears, I’d like to thank you,” his words conveying the immense significance of this moment for him as a father. The raw honesty of his sentiment resonated deeply with everyone present, underscoring the universal joy and apprehension of a parent witnessing their child embark on a long-cherished dream.

Maheep Kapoor, Shanaya’s mother, also expressed her immense excitement and nervousness. “I am so excited obviously. As Shanaya said, she has grown up in PVR. I am very nervous. Mansi, Varun and Sandy (Santosh Singh) have made a phenomenal film. I have seen it. It’s just beautiful and I am saying this from the bottom of my heart. Show my baby all the love,” she appealed, her voice filled with motherly affection.

Shanaya Kapoor’s journey to this debut has been keenly watched. After a few projects were reportedly shelved, ‘Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan’ has finally given her the launchpad she sought. The film, a romantic drama based on Ruskin Bond’s short story ‘The Eyes Have It,’ sees Shanaya starring alongside the highly acclaimed Vikrant Massey. Shanaya plays Saba, a visually impaired theatre artist, while Vikrant essays the role of Jahaan, a blind musician.

Vikrant Massey himself showered praise on his co-star, acknowledging her dedication and talent. “This is her first film. Par jitna maine unse seekha hai in 4-5 mahino mein, utna shayad hi maine apne 21 saal ke lambe career mein seekha hoga! I mean every word of it!” he stated, highlighting Shanaya’s commitment and growth during the making of the film.

For Sanjay Kapoor, who has navigated the highs and lows of the film industry for decades, witnessing his daughter step into this challenging yet rewarding world is undoubtedly a profound experience. His emotional display was a testament to the dreams, hard work, and sacrifices that pave the way for such moments.

‘Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan,’ directed by Santosh Singh and produced by Mansi Bagla, Varun Bagla, and Open Window Films, is set to release in cinemas on July 11th. With a touching storyline, promising performances, and a father’s tearful blessing, the film is already generating considerable buzz.