25 October,2026 06:12 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Anil Kapoor and Satish Kaushik. Pic via X
Actor Anil Kapoor was reminded of his late friend Satish Kaushik during an episode of India Ke Top 1 percent - The Anil Kapoor Show. The actor became emotional after meeting a contestant named Gagan, whose resemblance to Kaushik brought back memories of their decades-long friendship.
Gagan revealed that people often tell him he looks like the late actor. The resemblance struck a chord with Anil, who spoke about the special bond he shared with Kaushik and admitted that putting their friendship into words was difficult.
Recalling their equation, Anil said, "My bond with him, I cannot explain. Even if this shoot were 70 minutes long, it would not be enough to tell his stories. He was a very, very dear friend of mine, but apart from that, his talent and fun were excellent."
Anil revealed that he affectionately called Kaushik 'Danny DeVito'. The two shared a love for the film Twins and had often imagined playing twin brothers on screen. However, that wish remained unfulfilled.
Speaking about how deeply Kaushik understood him, Anil said, "If I had had a twin brother, it would have been Satish. He knew everything about me, my anger, my happiness and everything. He knew me so well." The emotional exchange also took a lighter turn when Anil and Gagan sang one of Kaushik's most recognisable lines, bringing back memories of the late actor's much-loved character.
Kaushik remains fondly remembered for his work as an actor, filmmaker and comedian. One of his most iconic roles was Calendar, the cook in the 1987 science-fiction film Mr India, starring Anil Kapoor and Sridevi.
His famous line, "My name is Calendar; I'm heading into the kitchen!" remains associated with the character and the film. Anil and Gagan revisited the line during the show, celebrating a performance that continues to resonate with audiences.
Across a career spanning more than four decades, Kaushik appeared in films such as Ram Lakhan, Saajan Chale Sasural and Deewana Mastana. He also directed films including Roop Ki Rani Choron Ka Raja, Hum Aapke Dil Mein Rehte Hain and Tere Naam.
Kaushik died on March 9, 2023, aged 66. While his filmography remains an enduring part of Hindi cinema, Anil's recollections offer a personal reminder of the friend he lost and the memories they shared. Anil Kapoor is currently the host of India Ke Top 1 percent.
