by For any actor, a debut film carries the weight of dreams, years of preparation, and immense emotional investment. For Shanaya Kapoor, Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan was not just her first step into Bollywood but the culmination of nearly five years of anticipation, training, and quiet perseverance. While the romantic drama did not translate into strong box-office numbers, Shanaya’s recent reflections on the film reveal a perspective rooted in pride, gratitude, and artistic fulfillment rather than commercial metrics alone.
Speaking candidly in an interview quoted by Hindustan Times, the young actor addressed the underwhelming theatrical performance of her debut while offering a refreshingly honest glimpse into the emotional journey behind it. Her words struck a chord with many, particularly aspiring artists who understand that creative success is often far more complex than numbers on a balance sheet.
A Debut Built on Years of Waiting and Emotional Investment
Unlike overnight launches that sometimes characterize star-kid debuts, Shanaya Kapoor’s entry into films was marked by an extended period of uncertainty. Industry delays, shifting projects, and the unpredictable nature of cinema meant that her first release took nearly five years to materialize.
Reflecting on that moment, Shanaya described the overwhelming relief she felt when Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan finally reached audiences. “There was so much tension in me for almost five years before that,” she shared. “When that Friday came and my film was out there, I took a deep breath, and finally, I exhaled.”
That sentiment underscores how debut films are rarely just professional milestones. For first-time actors, especially those under intense public scrutiny, they represent validation—proof that the journey, no matter how long or uncertain, has finally found expression.
Acknowledging Commercial Disappointment Without Losing Perspective
Shanaya did not shy away from acknowledging that box-office outcomes matter. In an industry where success is often measured in opening weekend collections and ticket sales, commercial disappointment can sting deeply.
“Of course, what happens commercially does hurt you a little,” she admitted. “You want people to go watch your work in the theatres.”
Yet, rather than letting numbers define her experience, Shanaya emphasized the emotional reward she received from audience appreciation. Messages of encouragement, warmth, and appreciation poured in following the film’s release—something she described as deeply affirming.
“The love I got was so much,” she said. “It was everything I was waiting for.”
Her response reflects a mature understanding that while box-office performance can shape careers, it does not always capture a film’s emotional impact or an artist’s personal achievement.
“It’s a Proud Movie Made With Love”
One of the most widely quoted aspects of Shanaya’s statement was her unwavering pride in Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan. Despite its box-office struggles, she continues to stand by the film and what it represents in her journey.
“My Insta bio still says, ‘Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan out on ZEE5,’” she noted. “I am very proud of that film. I want everyone to see that.”
She acknowledged that publicly embracing a film that did not perform as expected might be seen by some as inviting criticism. But for Shanaya, visibility is not about hiding outcomes—it is about honoring effort.
“Maybe it can be seen as putting it out there that the film didn’t do well,” she said. “But for me, it’s a proud movie made with love.”
In an era where many actors distance themselves from underperforming projects, Shanaya’s loyalty to her debut stands out as a testament to artistic integrity.
About the Film: Expectations vs Reality
Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, a romantic drama co-starring Vikrant Massey, generated curiosity ahead of its release, particularly due to the pairing of the two actors. Early buzz highlighted their chemistry and the film’s emotional premise.
However, upon release, the film faced criticism for its pacing and screenplay structure. While some viewers appreciated its sincerity and performances, others felt the narrative lacked momentum. These mixed reactions contributed to its limited theatrical traction.
Despite this, the film has found a second life on streaming, where it is currently available on ZEE5. Like many theatrical releases in recent years, its digital audience may ultimately be broader and more forgiving than box-office figures suggest.
Navigating Expectations as a Star Kid
Being the daughter of actor Sanjay Kapoor and part of the extended Kapoor film family, Shanaya entered the industry under a microscope. Star kids often face heightened expectations, harsher criticism, and relentless comparisons—even before their first release.
In this context, Shanaya’s reflections take on added significance. Her emphasis on effort, patience, and emotional fulfillment challenges the narrative that debut success must be immediate and spectacular.
Rather than positioning herself as entitled to success, she framed Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan as a starting point—an opening chapter rather than a final verdict.
A Debut Built on Years of Waiting and Emotional Investment
Unlike overnight launches that sometimes characterize star-kid debuts, Shanaya Kapoor’s entry into films was marked by an extended period of uncertainty. Industry delays, shifting projects, and the unpredictable nature of cinema meant that her first release took nearly five years to materialize.
Reflecting on that moment, Shanaya described the overwhelming relief she felt when Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan finally reached audiences. “There was so much tension in me for almost five years before that,” she shared. “When that Friday came and my film was out there, I took a deep breath, and finally, I exhaled.”
That sentiment underscores how debut films are rarely just professional milestones. For first-time actors, especially those under intense public scrutiny, they represent validation—proof that the journey, no matter how long or uncertain, has finally found expression.
Acknowledging Commercial Disappointment Without Losing Perspective
Shanaya did not shy away from acknowledging that box-office outcomes matter. In an industry where success is often measured in opening weekend collections and ticket sales, commercial disappointment can sting deeply.
“Of course, what happens commercially does hurt you a little,” she admitted. “You want people to go watch your work in the theatres.”
Yet, rather than letting numbers define her experience, Shanaya emphasized the emotional reward she received from audience appreciation. Messages of encouragement, warmth, and appreciation poured in following the film’s release—something she described as deeply affirming.
“The love I got was so much,” she said. “It was everything I was waiting for.”
Her response reflects a mature understanding that while box-office performance can shape careers, it does not always capture a film’s emotional impact or an artist’s personal achievement.
The Childlike Joy of Finally Being Seen on Screen
Perhaps the most touching aspect of Shanaya Kapoor’s reflection was her description of the “kid” inside her—wide-eyed, excited, and brimming with joy simply because her film was finally out in the world.
“While I was getting messages like ‘It’s okay’ and ‘things will get well,’ there was this kid in me that was just beaming with joy that my film is out now,” she shared.
That statement offers a rare glimpse into the vulnerability behind debut performances. Beyond critiques, reviews, and industry chatter lies an actor who once dreamed of seeing her name on a big-screen poster—and who finally did.
“For me, that moment was everything,” she added. “Whatever the fate of this film has been, I was giving my all, and I’ve done it.”
“It’s a Proud Movie Made With Love”
One of the most widely quoted aspects of Shanaya’s statement was her unwavering pride in Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan. Despite its box-office struggles, she continues to stand by the film and what it represents in her journey.
“My Insta bio still says, ‘Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan out on ZEE5,’” she noted. “I am very proud of that film. I want everyone to see that.”
She acknowledged that publicly embracing a film that did not perform as expected might be seen by some as inviting criticism. But for Shanaya, visibility is not about hiding outcomes—it is about honoring effort.
“Maybe it can be seen as putting it out there that the film didn’t do well,” she said. “But for me, it’s a proud movie made with love.”
In an era where many actors distance themselves from underperforming projects, Shanaya’s loyalty to her debut stands out as a testament to artistic integrity.
About the Film: Expectations vs Reality
Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, a romantic drama co-starring Vikrant Massey, generated curiosity ahead of its release, particularly due to the pairing of the two actors. Early buzz highlighted their chemistry and the film’s emotional premise.
However, upon release, the film faced criticism for its pacing and screenplay structure. While some viewers appreciated its sincerity and performances, others felt the narrative lacked momentum. These mixed reactions contributed to its limited theatrical traction.
Despite this, the film has found a second life on streaming, where it is currently available on ZEE5. Like many theatrical releases in recent years, its digital audience may ultimately be broader and more forgiving than box-office figures suggest.
Working Alongside Vikrant Massey
Sharing screen space with an established performer like Vikrant Massey added both opportunity and pressure for Shanaya Kapoor. Massey, known for his nuanced performances, brought credibility and emotional depth to the project.
For Shanaya, the collaboration served as a learning experience. Industry insiders and viewers alike noted moments where her vulnerability complemented Massey’s restraint, suggesting potential that could be further refined with experience.
While critiques highlighted areas for growth, many also acknowledged the sincerity of her performance—a quality that cannot be taught and often forms the foundation of lasting careers.
Navigating Expectations as a Star Kid
Being the daughter of actor Sanjay Kapoor and part of the extended Kapoor film family, Shanaya entered the industry under a microscope. Star kids often face heightened expectations, harsher criticism, and relentless comparisons—even before their first release.
In this context, Shanaya’s reflections take on added significance. Her emphasis on effort, patience, and emotional fulfillment challenges the narrative that debut success must be immediate and spectacular.
Rather than positioning herself as entitled to success, she framed Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan as a starting point—an opening chapter rather than a final verdict.
A Lesson in Resilience and Long-Term Vision
What emerges most strongly from Shanaya Kapoor’s comments is a sense of resilience. She acknowledges disappointment without dwelling in it, celebrates love without ignoring reality, and looks ahead without dismissing the past.
Her story reflects a broader truth about creative professions: not every sincere effort results in instant applause, but every sincere effort leaves behind growth.
“I’ve done it,” she said simply—and in those words lies both relief and resolve.
When Audience Love Becomes Its Own Measure of Success
While box-office figures often dominate conversations around success, Shanaya Kapoor’s experience highlights the quieter power of audience connection. Messages from viewers—some reassuring, others appreciative—became an emotional anchor during a vulnerable moment. These personal responses, she noted, mattered deeply, offering validation beyond trade numbers. In today’s cinematic landscape, where digital platforms extend a film’s life far beyond theatres, audience engagement is no longer limited to ticket counters. Viewers discovering Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan on streaming may approach it with fewer expectations and more openness, allowing its emotional intent to resonate differently. For Shanaya, this evolving relationship between artist and audience reinforces the idea that impact unfolds over time. Success, in this sense, becomes cumulative—built through trust, relatability, and honesty rather than opening-day performance alone.
The Road Ahead
As Shanaya Kapoor continues to explore new opportunities, Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan will remain a defining moment—not because of how it performed, but because of what it represented.
The film marked the end of waiting and the beginning of becoming.
In an industry often obsessed with instant success, Shanaya’s perspective offers a quieter, more human narrative—one where pride is not measured by numbers alone, and where love for the craft outweighs temporary setbacks.
As audiences discover the film on streaming platforms and Shanaya steps forward with future projects, her debut may well be remembered not as a failure, but as a foundation—laid carefully, honestly, and with heart.
