Nayak Turns 25: Anil Kapoor Reveals Why He Chose Shivaji Rao

Anil Kapoor commemorated the 25th anniversary of ‘Nayak: The Real Hero’ on Monday with a social media tribute to the popular film.

The actor posted a compilation of notable moments from the movie while discussing the reason he accepted the role of television journalist-turned-Chief Minister Shivaji Rao.

Anil Kapoor explained that Shivaji Rao’s rise from an ordinary citizen to the state’s top political office did not, by itself, convince him to take the part.

The actor instead found the character’s approach to power compelling because Shivaji chose to use his authority to address problems affecting the public.

Anil Kapoor said the opportunity to portray a character with such a strong sense of purpose remained a privilege for him. He expressed pride in being associated with a story whose message about serving the nation continues to resonate.

S Shankar directed the 2001 Hindi political drama, which centres on Shivaji Rao, a television reporter who confronts Chief Minister Balraj Chauhan over corruption and failures in administration.

After Shivaji challenges Chauhan during an interview, the Chief Minister dares him to take control of the state for one day.

Shivaji accepts the challenge and uses the brief period to introduce dramatic reforms. His actions unsettle the political establishment while earning appreciation from citizens.

The movie brought together Anil Kapoor with Rani Mukerji, the late Amrish Puri, Paresh Rawal, Johnny Lever and Saurabh Shukla.

Shankar adapted ‘Nayak’ from his Tamil-language film ‘Mudhalvan’. Several songs from the soundtrack, including ‘Rukhi Sukhi Roti’ and ‘Nayak’, also became major hits.

The story presented an ordinary individual with an extraordinary opportunity to challenge an established system, a concept that connected strongly with viewers.

Reports suggest Shankar had initially considered Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan for Shivaji Rao before Kapoor ultimately secured the role.