"It Felt Like Hanging Out With Friends": Kunal Kapoor Revisits Rang De Basanti on Independence Day 2026

As India celebrates its 80th Independence Day, actor Kunal Kapoor takes a nostalgic trip down memory lane, revisiting one of the most defining films of his career, Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s cult classic Rang De Basanti (2006). The actor, who won hearts with his portrayal of Aslam Khan and freedom fighter Ashfaqulla Khan, continues to hold the film close to his heart nearly two decades after its release.

Reflecting on his experience of being part of the much-loved film, Kunal recalls how effortless and organic the process felt at the time. “Rang De Basanti didn’t feel like a film while we were making it. It felt like hanging out with friends, making something you really enjoy and believe in. Nobody knew it would still resonate so much, 20 years later,” he shared.

Kunal’s portrayal of Aslam stood out for its understated yet rebellious spirit, leaving a lasting impression despite sharing screen space with celebrated performers including Aamir Khan. Looking back, the actor reveals that it was not the anger or rebellion of his character that stayed with him, but the larger idea of responsibility towards one’s country. “What stayed with me wasn’t the anger or rebelliousness. It was the idea that the country isn’t something you inherit, it’s something you’re responsible for. That’s aged well,” he said.

While Independence Day often brings grand celebrations, Kunal plans to keep things simple this year. “No grand plans this year. There’s a flag hoisting in the complex, which is always lovely. Family in the day, back at work by evening,” he revealed.

For Kunal, however, independence goes beyond the celebration of a nation’s freedom. It is also about having the courage to live authentically and make choices rooted in personal conviction. “Independence to me is doing what you believe in, even when you’re not sure how it’ll be received. Not just as a country but also as a person. To be able to live in a way that’s most authentic to you,” he concluded.

With the spirit of independence continuing to hold personal significance for him, Kunal Kapoor is now set to bring another iconic character to life, as he will next be seen portraying Lord Indra in Ramayana: Part 1.