Filmmaker Shekhar Kapur has directed only seven feature films in his career, yet his 1987 classic Mr. India remains one of the most celebrated movies in Bollywood history. It was only his second directorial venture, starring Anil Kapoor in the titular role and bankrolled by Boney Kapoor and Surinder Kapoor, but Kapur insists the real magic of the film came from its leading lady, Sridevi.
In a recent conversation with Filmfare, Shekhar Kapur revealed just how much Sridevi’s professionalism and talent defined the much-loved film. He recalled how Sridevi shot the popular song “Kaate Nahi Katte” while running a fever of 103 degrees. “Sridevi was running a high fever of 103 degrees. Yet, she didn’t reveal her condition and continued to perform with her usual energy and grace,” said the filmmaker, adding that he only discovered the extent of her illness later through the choreographer.
Shekhar Kapur also spoke about the iconic Charlie Chaplin-inspired comedy sequence in Mr. India, crediting Sridevi for making it unforgettable. “Mr. India is her. It’s actually Sridevi,” he said. When Shekhar Kapur suggested the quirky idea of Sridevi donning a moustache, she embraced it wholeheartedly, even studying Chaplin’s videos to perfect her act. The result was one of the most iconic moments in Hindi cinema.
Shekhar Kapur’s Mr. India went on to become a milestone in Bollywood, even finding success in China. Sridevi’s performance earned her a Special Award at the 58th Filmfare Awards, further cementing her status as one of Indian cinema’s most versatile and beloved actresses.
