Why Anil Kapoor delayed official premiere of 24's new season in India

The television premiere of the eighth season of popular Hollywood show 24, featuring Anil Kapoor was supposed to happen on August 9 but was later changed to August 23 at the actor's behest.

Says a source close to Anil, "Anil's production Aisha was releasing on August 6. He wanted to be there completely for his daughters, Sonam and Rhea and requested the channel to delay the airing of the show."

No objections
The channel didn't object, as they needed him to promote the show in India. "The latest season of 24 will largely be seen because Anil Kapoor is in it. It's like a local boy going out there and achieving something.

The channel understood his situation. Anil may have let Rhea take the lead on Aisha but he was completely clued in on how things were moving. As far as marketing and distribution was concerned, papa Kapoor was hands-on."

Emotional moment
He is now a relieved man. The source adds, "24 is extremely important for him and he has worked hard on getting into the character of an Arab head of state. It's also an emotional moment for Anil because the series, which was very successful in the US, will be aired in India for the first time. He is anxious about how people will react."

The source adds that the actor's family has seen the show. "They have loved the serial -- especially son Harsh and wife Sunita. In fact, Sunita thinks he looks very handsome and dashing in 24. Harsh really liked him in the role. His buddies in Los Angeles (Harsh is studying there) complimented him on his dad's performance."

Anil says, "I requested the channel (to delay the airing of the show) as it would have been tough for me to handle Aisha and 24 at the same time. 24 is very important to me and I wanted to give it proper time and attention. Family certainly comes first. But at the same time, I get my satisfaction when someone tells me I have done well as an actor."