I'm high on life: Anil

When Sonam Kapoor shot down the idea that Anil Kapoor be considered for the role of her screen father in Aisha saying he looked way too young, it seemed right to conclude that as an indulgent remark coming from a doting daughter.
But when the actor bounces into the room for this interview with not a trace of adipose or age showing, you know that Sonam was only stating a fact.He’d once joked when asked about his evergreen looks that he’d had five plastic surgeries! Ask him about it, and he says, “I’ve stopped taking such self-deprecating digs at myself because I realised there were some who didn’t quite get it!”
Explaining his youthful looks, he offers, “I’m high on life, both professional and personal. I exercise and eat right. I’m particular about my waking up, sleep and mealtime routines. And how can I forget these robust Kapoor genes!”
Anil says Chennai, as indeed the south, holds a special place in his heart. “The south, particularly Chennai, is at the very centre of my being because it is from here that I learnt professionalism. When I came here to shoot for the Telugu film Vamsa Vruksham directed by Bapu, which was shot in Rajamundhry and Chennai, I was impressed by how efficiently everything worked here, and the premium placed on punctuality and discipline. ”
With both daughters Sonam and Rhea coming into their own, what does the proud father feel is his share in their success? “Somewhere, I must have done something good. I gave them the right amount of freedom. Well, biologically, too, I must’ve done something right,” he says, tongue firmly in cheek.
While Slumdog Millionaire might have given Anil much global visibility, he’s clearly moved on to other things. “Let’s not talk about SDM, I’ve it coming out of my ears. Catch me on 24, the American TV serial in which I’ve recently debuted. I’m overwhelmed by the rave reviews I’ve garnered.” He continues, “Initially, I’d misgivings about how I’d pull it off. Playing a president from a Middle East country didn’t seem like a cakewalk. Plus, the fact that I’m quite ignorant about the politics of the region. But I’m thrilled at the outcome. This has been a 360 degree experience for me.”
With one as handsome as him, how is it that there’s not a shred of controversy around him? Wicked smile in place, Anil responds, “I’m lucky not to have been caught! But, on a serious note, I am very sensitive about how my actions could affect others.” And then with that gleam in his eye, Anil adds, “You’ve got to credit my wife Sunita for keeping me on a tight leash!”
About Mr India 2, Anil says, “For sure, we’ll get on to it by next year.” And will he and Sridevi be the lead pair? “We’ll have to wait and see. Nothing is certain, not even my playing Mr India.” But will Shekhar Kapur be directing it? “No, it won’t be him,” is all Anil’s willing to reveal.
Talking of his wish list, Anil rattles off, “I love to switch genres, and am not hung up on being the leading man as long as my character’s strong. With SDM and 24, an entire world has opened up to me, and I’m going to grab it with both my hands. I’d love to work with Inception director Christopher Nolan and with Robert Downing Junior, and sure once again with Danny Boyle. I’m upbeat about the future.”
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