Close to the Taj Mahal in Agra, Arjun Kapoor was rehearsing diligently for his upcoming film Tevar opposite Sonakshi Sinha when we caught up with him for a chat. Excerpts:

Tevar is your first film under your uncle Sanjay Kapoor's home production. Your father (Boney Kapoor) is also involved in the project. Since it is your home banner, do you get to pitch in your ideas?
I share my point of view but since dad has more experience, he takes the final call. Sanjay hears my version and that of dad's, and then gives his view.

Is there extra pressure of working with family?
It's an emotional experience to act in front of dad. With Sanjay, I don't share a typical chacha-bhatija equation; we are more like friends.

Who broke the ice between you and your co-star Sonakshi Sinha?
I know her since school and keep teasing her as Salman Khan's heroine. I used to meet her during workout sessions with Salman. It feels different to be romancing her on the big screen.

In your last film, Gunday, your character was compared to your uncle, Anil Kapoor...
Because people had not seen that kind of energy since Ram-Lakhan. But it is unfair to compare. I want to be as disciplined and dedicated as him. I ask him not to meet me in public because he looks like he can play my younger brother on screen!


The trailer of your film 2 States opposite Alia Bhatt is out. Do you feel the subject of the film holds good in this era?
Indians are very emotional and family-oriented. So, the subject is evergreen. Caste and community differences don't affect this generation but they are a concern for our elders. You have to convince them and take their blessings for a new relationship.

What is your character in Finding Fanny Fernandes?
I play a mechanic, who's in denial about being a loser. We shot it entirely in Goa. Homi (Adjania) is a mad director. Working with Deepika Padukone was great. I know her from the time she was dating Ranbir Kapoor.