Want Young Girls To Feel Liberated After Watching My Films: Rhea Kapoor

As Rhea Kapoor's forthcoming film, Thank You For Coming starring Bhumi Pednekar, prepares for its India release, the film's producer and cast members participated in a candid conversation with SheThePeople.

During this discussion, Kapoor delved into various subjects, such as discussions around privilege and nepotism, her steadfast dedication to projects like TYFC, and the underlying vision and purpose that drive her work.

The producer has several notable projects, including Aisha, Khoobsurat, and Veere Di Wedding. What sets these films apart are their fresh and relatable storytelling, a celebration of individuality, a strong emphasis on female-centric narratives, and unapologetically exploring the complexities of modern women. Each project was marked by its unique charm and empowering themes, making it stand out in the Bollywood landscape.

TYFC marks Kapoor's fourth venture as a producer, and it is directed by none other than her husband, Karan Boolani. After a stellar premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) 2023, where it received critical acclaim, the eagerly awaited film is all set to captivate Indian audiences on October 6. 

In conversation with SheThePeople, the producer emphasised that all her work has demanded unwavering commitment, passion, and determination, leaving no room for any other path.

Addressing Privilege and Nepotism

She began by addressing the discussions around privilege and nepotism, "People talk about privilege and nepotism, but I can't change the fact that Anil Kapoor is my father. I'm thankful for the hard work my parents have done to support our family. Instead of apologising or taking advantage, I aim to use my unique opportunities for meaningful actions."

I only have one choice and I can do things that other people can't do. This is what I want to do. This is what I'm going to do. I'm stubborn. And this is my vision. This is my purpose. And I am really trying. And I'm grateful for it. 

For instance, she said that making Aisha was only possible because Sonam Kapoor is her sister, and she was willing to collaborate with her. Similarly, Khoobsurat followed a similar path. She added that no other actor in the industry was willing to be part of Veere Di Wedding, she said, “No other girl was ready to do either Sonam (Kapoor) or Kareena's (Kapoor) parts, because they felt like, ‘oh, she's making a film with her sister.  What is going to happen?’ Or for example, someone who's doing Kareena's part, ‘you have another lead actor,  like a proper lead,  A-list star, doing this part, which clearly the story follows Kalindi. It follows Kareena's story.” She believes that these films were the result of "these privileges, these advantages,  whatever you call them," and she wants to use them to do something good.

Vision And Purpose:

According to Kapoor, this determination stems from a sense of responsibility that she feels there's no other option and she must do this; there's "no one else" to do it. She said, “I'm driven by the satisfaction of making a difference, like when a girl tells me she's inspired by my work. Ultimately, I want people to feel more liberated after watching my films. This responsibility has been ingrained in us from birth, and we embrace it."

As a woman, particularly since my twenties, it was a unique position. I had ideas and opportunities, but there was a sense of unfinished business, of important conversations left untouched. I wanted to understand every aspect. For instance, consider a film sale. You have to secure the budget through pre-sales, digital platforms, satellite, and music rights. It's a puzzle to make the story fit the budget. The brunt of these decisions ultimately falls on me, no matter what's discussed in the room.

On Being Considered A Difficult Producer

Being a privileged man's daughter, Kapoor has always been questioned about the need for money and considered a difficult woman producer, and discussing that Kapoor said, "I've reached a point where I won't compromise. I'm determined, even if it means being seen as a difficult producer. I'm determined to claim my value, speak for myself, and choose the right collaborators, regardless of the consequences. What's crucial to me now is asserting the value of my work, my cast, and my stories. I want the authority to make decisions and am prepared for any consequences."

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