Remembering 'Fiza': Anup Soni Recalls Humble Beginnings and On-Set Camaraderie with Hrithik Roshan

Step back in time to the dawn of a new millennium, when Bollywood was bustling with raw talent and an unwavering spirit of creation, often under less-than-glamorous circumstances. Veteran actor Anup Soni recently opened up about his unforgettable experiences during the filming of the 2000 hit 'Fiza', a movie that marked a pivotal moment for many, including its lead, Hrithik Roshan.

Soni's vivid recollections paint a picture of passion and resourcefulness, a stark contrast to today's luxurious film sets.

He vividly described the challenging shooting locations, particularly in remote areas, where basic amenities were a luxury. "Back then, we didn’t have vanity vans. If we were shooting in some remote place, which ‘Fiza’ had a lot of, there would be no makeup room," Soni recounted, highlighting the humble beginnings that forged unbreakable bonds and incredible dedication among the crew.

One particular anecdote stands out, offering a heartwarming glimpse into the camaraderie shared between him and then-budding superstar Hrithik Roshan.

"Hrithik and I would sit on the bonnet of a car, and the makeup dada would do our makeup. He would ask us to sit in front of the headlights so that there was proper light," Soni shared, a testament to the ingenuity and simplicity with which films were crafted. This image of two actors, one on the cusp of superstardom and the other a diligent performer, getting ready under a car's beam, speaks volumes about their commitment to their craft.

Despite the immense success and adoration Hrithik Roshan garnered after his debut in 'Kaho Naa...

Pyaar Hai', Soni remembers him as exceptionally humble and grounded during the 'Fiza' shoots. "He had just become a superstar, but he was so grounded, so simple, just like any other person. He was never like, ‘Oh, I am a star’," Soni emphasized, praising Roshan's genuine personality and easygoing nature.

The film, which also starred the iconic Karisma Kapoor, was a profound learning experience for Soni.

He expressed immense gratitude for being part of such a significant project early in his career. His stories serve as a powerful reminder of an era where the magic of cinema was created not just by grand budgets and opulent sets, but by sheer willpower, collective effort, and an enduring love for storytelling.

These candid memories from the sets of 'Fiza' truly underscore the journey and evolution of Indian cinema.