01 May,2026 04:56 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Anil Kapoor and family ( Paps clicked)
Anil Kapoor has made a candid admission about his parenting, reflecting on the time he missed with his children while building his career in the film industry. In a recent conversation, the veteran actor acknowledged that he was largely absent during their growing years and credited his wife, Sunita Kapoor, for holding the family together.
Speaking about his role as a father to Sonam Kapoor, Harshvardhan Kapoor, and Rhea Kapoor, Anil admitted he could have done much better. He shared that his professional commitments often kept him away from home, leaving Sunita to take on most of the parenting responsibilities.
"I was hardly there," Anil said, reflecting on those years. He added that while he is proud of the people his children have grown into, he feels he should have spent more time with them. According to the actor, his absence meant he was not always aware of important details in their lives, including their school routines and milestones.
One of his most striking admissions was about missing even the most basic personal moments. Anil revealed that he often forgot his children's birthdays and had to rely on his wife to remind him. He recalled moments when his children would ask about their own birthdays and he would be unable to answer, highlighting how disconnected he felt at times from their day-to-day lives.
Despite this, the actor emphasised that his children have grown up to be happy and successful individuals, something he takes pride in. He also acknowledged Sunita's crucial role, describing her as someone who functioned almost like a single parent during those years. Her constant presence, he said, ensured stability and care for the family while he focused on his career.
Anil's reflection offers a rare glimpse into the personal cost of professional success, especially in demanding industries like cinema. His honesty about his shortcomings as a father adds a human dimension to his public persona, showing that even celebrated stars grapple with balancing work and family life.
Today, as he continues to remain active in films, Anil appears more reflective about his journey not just as an actor, but as a parent who acknowledges both his achievements and his regrets.
