Anupam Kher has just concluded a five-week shooting stint in Philadelphia. It is perhaps the most significant role for any Indian actor in a mainline Hollywood production, ‘The Silver Linings Playbook’. A Weinstein company production directed by David O Russell (who also helmed The Fighter), the film is about a teacher – played by Bradley Cooper – who after having spent four years in a mental institution, now returns to society. Kher plays his Indian-origin therapist. And the legendary Robert De Niro, with whom Kher shares screen space, plays Cooper’s father. The film is slated for a 2012 release. Kher says that to work with De Niro, whom he idolises, has been his dream for decades. “I always believe that dreams come true and this film reaffirms my faith,” says the veteran actor. According to Kher, the five weeks have been one of the most challenging and satisfying times in his 26-year long career. “I have learnt a lot about the professional approach Hollywood brings to a project. I was impressed with the dignity of labour they all display,” says Kher. He says he was totally absorbed and would shut himself for hours from the outside world to concentrate on his role. De Niro and Cooper personally gifted autographed posters for Kher’s acting school, and De Niro had a message for aspiring actors too. “He said that one should stay focused and enjoy acting; and if one did become a star in the process, it was a bonus,” says Kher.
