Noted filmmaker Anurag Kashyap and Shubhra Shetty recently provided a rare glimpse into their enduring 11-year relationship, characterized by a significant age gap of over two decades. Kashyap, who is 53, and Shetty, in her early thirties, have openly discussed the challenges they’ve faced, particularly surrounding societal judgment and their personal struggles with the age difference. Their interview on Janice Sequira’s YouTube channel shed light on their unconventional love story, from its clandestine beginnings to their current contentment in Bengaluru, far from the media glare of Mumbai.
Initially, the couple strove to maintain a low profile. Shubhra recounted their efforts to avoid public scrutiny, attending events discreetly. However, their relationship eventually became public knowledge through a journalist. Reflecting on her parents’ initial reaction, Shubhra admitted that if she were in their shoes, she too would have concerns about her twenty-year-old daughter dating a man twice her age, twice-married, with a child, and the subject of various rumors. Despite these initial reservations, her mother now views Anurag as a “henpecked husband,” suggesting a significant shift in perception and acceptance over time.
Their romance blossomed in an unexpected way. Shubhra revealed that it was Anurag who first declared his love, a moment she described as a “flip” for her. He assured her that he understood the gravity of his feelings, having lived more of life, and encouraged her to experience the world before committing. This profound moment, coupled with shared vulnerabilities and frequent emotional expressions, became a cornerstone of their bond. Anurag elaborated that their connection was deeply rooted in shared interests like books, films, and attending festivals, with Shubhra often surpassing his attendance at such events.
Kashyap confessed to grappling with considerable self-consciousness regarding their age difference. He explained that despite not facing direct “shaming,” his internal struggles led him to a point where he attempted to distance himself from Shubhra. Her youthful appearance, in contrast to his aging, exacerbated his anxieties. He emphasized that he had initially tried to “push her away” due to these feelings. Shubhra corroborated this, stating that Anurag, having experienced more of life, was adamant that she explore her own path, confident that she would eventually return to him if their love was meant to be.
The director of the acclaimed ‘Gangs Of Wasseypur’ acknowledged his deep concern for Shubhra’s career and his reluctance to hinder her future due to their relationship. This led him to set her free, despite knowing in his heart that she was “the one.” He reflected on his journey to self-acceptance, a process he described as long and arduous. For him, the moment of undeniable realization came when Shubhra spent an entire shoot for ‘Nishan chi’ on set, solidifying his conviction that she was his lifelong partner.
Now, Anurag asserts that he no longer seeks external validation. He attributes his past struggles, including alcoholism, to prioritizing others’ opinions over his own well-being. Since relocating from Mumbai, he has adopted a more self-prioritizing lifestyle, choosing to work only when he feels inclined. He credits Shubhra and her family, particularly her mother – who is seven or eight years his senior and a close friend – for embodying this self-assured approach from the beginning, influencing him positively. His most recent directorial venture was ‘Bandar,’ starring Bobby Deol. For more insights into the world of film and entertainment, delve into our dedicated section.
