GOA: Renowned actor and motivational speaker Anupam Kher enthralled a packed audience at Kala Mandir today with his masterclass “Giving Up Is NOT a Choice” — a session infused with humour, honesty, and heartfelt life lessons drawn from his own journey.
Kher began by recounting one of the most defining chapters of his career — nearly losing the lead role in Saaransh after preparing for six months. Devastated and ready to leave Mumbai forever, he visited director Mahesh Bhatt for a final farewell. Moved by Kher’s emotional breakdown, Bhatt reconsidered, cast him back, and the film eventually launched Kher into stardom.
“That setback,” he reflected, “was the beginning of my rise. Giving up was never an option.”
“All my motivational speeches are based on my life experiences”
Kher shared multiple episodes from his struggles — growing up in a cramped home with 14 family members, yet living joyfully thanks to his grandfather’s philosophy of finding happiness in little things.
“Failure is an event, never a person”
In another heartfelt moment, he recalled his father’s reaction to his school ranking:
“I stood 58th in a class of 60,” Kher laughed.
Instead of anger, his father encouraged him:
“A topper always fears losing rank. You, my son, can only go up from here. Next time, come 48th.”
The audience erupted in applause at the profound simplicity of the lesson.
“Become the lead in your own biopic”
Emphasising self-belief, Kher urged participants to embrace challenges:
“Why should life be easy? It’s your problems that will make your biopic a blockbuster.”
His energy and humour carried seamlessly into the Q&A session, where he reiterated the essence of the masterclass:
“‘Giving up is not a choice’ is not just a slogan — it is hard work. If you quit, the story ends right there.”
About IFFI
Established in 1952, the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is South Asia’s oldest and largest celebration of cinema. Jointly organised by NFDC (Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Government of India) and the Entertainment Society of Goa (Government of Goa), the festival unites global filmmakers, cinematic legends and emerging voices. The 56th edition, held from November 20–28 across Goa, features masterclasses, competitions, cultural events and the dynamic WAVES Film Bazaar — a hub for creativity, collaboration and new cinematic possibilities.
