Annu Kapoor recently reflected on his experience working with Priyanka Chopra in Vishal Bhardwaj’s 2011 film 7 Khoon Maaf, a psychological drama where Chopra portrayed Susanna, a woman who kills her seven husbands. Kapoor, one of those husbands, played the role of Inspector Keemat Lal. In an interview with ANI, the veteran actor addressed longstanding rumors about a kissing scene that was never filmed due to Priyanka Chopra’s apparent discomfort.
According to Kapoor, when the time came to shoot an intimate scene, Priyanka expressed unease about it, which led to speculation that she refused to kiss him. Reflecting on the incident, Kapoor said, “The simple thing is, if I were a hero, Priyanka Chopra wouldn’t have had any problem. She doesn’t have any problem kissing a hero. Then there is me. I don’t have a face. I don’t have a personality. That’s why there’s a problem.” His remark highlights the way Bollywood often assigns value to the “hero” persona, where only lead actors are typically expected to engage in romantic scenes.
Kapoor’s comments seemed to imply that the notion of heroism—and its visual appeal—plays a critical role in these dynamics. His suggestion that Chopra would have felt differently had he been the film’s lead raises questions about the pressures and biases around appearances and star power in the industry.
During the filming, Kapoor had initially suggested cutting the scene when director Vishal Bhardwaj conveyed Priyanka’s hesitation. Bhardwaj, however, insisted that the scene be completed, and Kapoor went on to deliver his part, even performing a solo shot that received applause from the crew. Despite this, the incident led to widespread rumors that Priyanka had refused to kiss her co-star, underscoring the attention given to off-screen dynamics, especially when involving high-profile actors.
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7 Khoon Maaf, based on Ruskin Bond’s short story “Susanne’s Seven Husbands,” was a dark and complex film. Priyanka’s character Susanna embarks on a deadly journey, marrying and then disposing of her seven husbands, each in a unique and disturbing way. Kapoor’s character was a less glamorous one in comparison to other roles, which included actors like Neil Nitin Mukesh, John Abraham, and Irrfan Khan. Kapoor’s portrayal of the character Kimmat Lal, a manipulative and conniving man, was lauded for its depth and authenticity. Yet, it was far from the traditional ‘hero’ mold that Kapoor referred to in his remarks.
Kapoor’s reflections are a reminder of Bollywood’s hero-centric culture, where the lead actor’s physical appeal and charisma often overshadow other aspects of storytelling. In his extensive career, Annu Kapoor has largely played supporting roles, despite his undeniable talent. His versatility as an actor, singer, and host has earned him praise across mediums, from television to radio and films. His notable performances in Ek Ruka Hua Faisla, Aitraaz, Jolly LLB 2, and the Dream Girl series reflect his range and ability to adapt to a variety of roles, even though the mainstream industry may not position him as a ‘hero.’
Priyanka Chopra, on the other hand, has continued to enjoy a high-profile career, both in Bollywood and Hollywood. She has successfully transitioned into international cinema with projects like Baywatch, The White Tiger, and her current Amazon Prime series Citadel. Her upcoming projects include the films The Bluff and Heads of State, where she will be seen alongside big names like Idris Elba and John Cena. Priyanka has carved out a place for herself as one of the most successful and versatile actresses in the world today, constantly pushing boundaries and expanding her horizons.
Kapoor’s comments shed light on the intricate layers of Bollywood’s dynamics, particularly how stardom and physicality impact relationships between actors. Though these insights come years after the release of 7 Khoon Maaf, they raise ongoing questions about the roles actors are expected to play, both on-screen and off, in India’s film industry.
