Sikandar Kher, an actor known for his intense performances and versatile roles, has carved a niche for himself in Indian cinema and web series. With a career driven by passion and a constant desire to push creative boundaries, Kher has delivered memorable roles in projects like Aarya and Monica, O My Darling. His ability to delve deep into complex characters has made him a respected figure among peers and audiences alike. Beyond the screen, Sikandar's journey is a testament to persistence and the pursuit of excellence, inspiring aspiring actors to embrace their craft with dedication and heart.
What Makes You Passionate About Acting and Cinema?
I feel most alive when I'm on set, doing something I truly love. There's an inexplicable feeling when the camera rolls. Beyond that, the opportunity to meet incredible people—those I admire, as well as new friends—is something special. The bonds you form on a film set are unique and lasting. Everyone is in it together, working toward a shared goal, and that creates a connection that can last a lifetime. Acting, for me, is a beautiful process, one that is full of passion and energy.
Which Films and Characters Have Influenced You Deeply?
There are so many films that resonate with me, and it's hard to narrow them down. Joe Pesci's performance in My Cousin Vinny is one that I still remember from my youth—his work is brilliant, and he brings such vitality to his roles. My father’s portrayal of Doctor Dang has had a lasting impact on me. It's a role that people still refer to when they meet me, and it's inspiring to see how such characters have stayed in people's minds for so long.I’ve also been deeply moved by the work of Robert De Niro—whether it’s Travis from Taxi Driver, his role in Meet the Parents, or his performance in King of Comedy, De Niro's ability to stay alive in each role is unmatched.Leonardo DiCaprio's performance in Django Unchained—especially the scene where he smashes a glass—is unforgettable. Christoph Waltz in Inglourious Basterds—that opening sequence, and really every scene he's in, is iconic.Other performers like Leslie Nielsen in Naked Gun, Will Ferrell in his comedic improvisations, and Jim Carrey's genius in The Truman Show are all incredibly inspiring. I also can’t forget the impact of my mother’s work, especially in Kamoshpani—her ability to bring warmth and depth to her roles is something I deeply admire.And of course, Kishore Kumar's music and energy have been a constant source of inspiration for me.
What Has Been Your Favourite Character to Portray, and What Was Special About That Character?
There are three roles that stand out to me.First, Arya Dolatin from Arya. This character was pivotal in shaping my career. It was one of the most memorable shooting experiences I’ve had, and the bonds I formed with the crew and fellow actors remain special. The fact that people began calling me "Daulat" after the film speaks to how impactful that character was for the audience.Second, Nishikant in Monica, O My Darling was a fantastic role to play. Working with Vasan Bala was inspiring, and I really enjoyed the process. The film received great love, and it was truly rewarding.Lastly, Tera Bin Laden: Dead or Alive gave me the unique opportunity to portray a character that was both comedic and layered—a brown person who becomes white and then returns to being brown. This role was both rare and transformative for me as an actor, and it opened my mind to new possibilities in performance.
How Would You Describe Yourself in the Fewest Words?
I would describe myself as honest, extreme, and affectionate.
What Difference Did You Find in Working for Hollywood Compared to Bollywood?
Ultimately, the difference is minimal. Whether it’s Hollywood or Bollywood, we're all in the business of making films. The energy and vibe on set are the same. It's the craft of storytelling that unites us all, regardless of the language or location.
What's Your Routine to Stay Fit?
My fitness routine revolves around cardio. I enjoy running along the beautiful roads of JVPD scheme in Juhu, where I live. I usually go for a run between 7:00 and 8:00 AM with my headphones on. There was a time when I did six months of CrossFit, which was an excellent experience, and I plan to return to strength training soon. Right now, cardio keeps me feeling great. Exercise, especially running, keeps me fit and clears my mind, which is crucial for maintaining balance in life.
How Do You Balance Work and Personal Life?
I genuinely enjoy my work, so balancing isn’t something I actively think about. When I’m working, I’m happy to be immersed in the process. When I’m not on set, I enjoy being at home, but for me, work and personal life blend seamlessly. I find fulfillment in both, and they support one another.
What's in Your Gym Bag?
I don’t have a gym bag. Since I haven’t gone to the gym yet, there’s nothing in it!
What Are Some of the Greatest Challenges You've Faced as a Man?
The greatest challenges I’ve faced have been related to grooming, particularly trimming my beard. To be honest, when it comes to the difficulties of being a man, these are the only challenges I’ve faced so far.
What Does Masculinity Mean to You?
Masculinity, in my view, isn’t about being macho or tough. It’s about being chivalrous, kind, and respectful to others. I recently heard something beautiful from Raj Kapoor Saab, which was shared with me by my friend Nikhil Nanda: “A true man is someone who never makes others feel small.” I believe that’s the essence of masculinity—being humane and showing respect and kindness to others.
Can You Share Some Tips on Maintaining Your Mental Balance, Given the Pressures of the Entertainment Industry?
Maintaining mental health is vital, especially in the entertainment industry, where highs and lows are constant. Personally, I read a lot of self-help books and try to incorporate the lessons that resonate with me. However, I believe physical exercise has been the most helpful in maintaining my mental balance. Regular exercise keeps me grounded and boosts my mental resilience. No matter what challenges you face—whether in work or personal life—being physically fit can make a huge difference in how you approach them.
Can You Tell Us About Any Upcoming Projects or Roles That You're Excited About?
I’ve just completed two films—Just You, a comedy, and Baby Dude, which is also a comedy. There’s another thriller called Ekis, produced by my friend Saqib Saleem, and featuring Huma Qureshi. I’m also working on a show called Chidiya Udd, which will be released on Amazon. It was an incredible experience to work with Jackie Shroff on this project—his presence on set was inspiring. Lastly, I’m currently shooting for Ekis with director Shriram Raghavan, and I’m very excited about that as well.
What Hobbies or Interests Do You Pursue Outside of Acting to Relax and Unwind?
This question remains unanswered, as I haven’t provided specifics about my hobbies outside of acting.
What's Your Favourite Go-To Meal?
Breakfast is my favorite meal of the day. I wake up hungry, and after my morning run, I look forward to a hearty breakfast. Whether I’m at a buffet or at home, I just love starting my day with a good meal.
Could You Talk More About Your Relationship with Your Dad, Mr. Anupam Kher?
My relationship with my father is wonderful. We’re more like friends than anything else. He respects my space, and I respect his. We both share a great sense of humor, which makes our conversations enjoyable. He’s a man of great strength, and I’ve always looked to him for guidance, especially during tough times. He’s loving, gentle, and kind, and I’m truly blessed to have him as my father.
Did You Do Something Special on International Men’s Day?
No, I didn’t do anything special for International Men’s Day. Honestly, I don’t even know what date it falls on.
Compared to Women, What Are Some of the Biggest Shortcomings of Men? What Should Men Be Learning from Women?
I wouldn’t say men have shortcomings, but one thing I think men could learn from women is pain management. Women go through so much physically, and their ability to endure pain is remarkable. It’s something that men could learn from. Furthermore, the healthcare industry tends to focus more on male-centered medical studies, which can overlook the unique experiences of women. So, there’s a lot to learn from women, especially in terms of resilience and strength in the face of adversity.