Janhvi Kapoor won the Female Actor of the Year award at the NDTV Indian of the Year ceremony held in New Delhi on Friday.
Accepting the honour, Janhvi delivered an emotional and thoughtful speech, reflecting on her career journey, the influence of her film Homebound, and the growing sense of responsibility that comes with recognition and success.
While acknowledging the film’s measurable achievements—such as awards, global attention and international exposure—Janhvi said its deeper impact on her personal and artistic growth mattered most to her.
“There are visible milestones like awards, recognition and the incredible journey the film has taken,” she said. “But more importantly, it has helped me understand the kind of person and artist I want to be, and made me more aware of the fractures within our society.”
“Extremely grateful,” says Janhvi
She explained that working on the film sharpened her sensitivity to human emotions and contrasts. “It opened my eyes to the hope, goodness, beauty, fear, division and also the unity that exists in the world. For all these reasons, I feel deeply grateful to be part of this journey. I’m truly honoured,” she added.
Praise for director Neeraj Ghaywan
Janhvi expressed heartfelt appreciation for filmmaker Neeraj Ghaywan, thanking him for believing in her abilities. “I’m incredibly thankful to Neeraj sir for seeing potential in me that I often struggle to see in myself,” she said.
According to her, the heart of the film lies in empathy and acknowledgment. “The film is about truly seeing people and feeling seen. That’s what we hope audiences take away from it—and that’s what it gave me as well,” she shared.
On success and responsibility
Speaking about the pressure that comes with being named Indian of the Year, Janhvi admitted that nervousness never really fades. “My hand is shaking while holding this mic because I’m surrounded by such inspiring people. The pressure never really goes away,” she said honestly.
However, she noted that success has reshaped that pressure. “It’s turned into a sense of responsibility, and I’m much more aware of it now.”
Lessons from her parents
Janhvi also spoke about how her parents’ relationship influenced her values, emphasising respect, trust and personal freedom. “More than anything, it’s about respecting each other’s opinions, space and individuality—allowing people around you to grow without restricting them,” she said.
She added that compassion plays a key role in personal growth. “When you’re surrounded by people who genuinely love and support you, you’re free to become your best self instead of being defined by others’ perceptions.”
A lighter moment
Bringing humour into the conversation, Janhvi joked about her lack of singing talent. “I was told everyone here has been singing—but that’s one thing I absolutely shouldn’t do. If I start singing, the hall will empty in seconds,” she quipped, drawing laughter.
Reflecting on her childhood in a film family, she shared that performing came naturally to her. “I was very enterprising—I’d direct, act and organise little shows. People even had to pay to watch me perform,” she said with a grin, adding that they jokingly had to “pay to leave” as well.
NDTV launched the Indian of the Year awards in 2003 to honour individuals who represent India’s progress and spirit. Through a rigorous selection process, the platform recognises excellence across 14 categories, including business, innovation, philanthropy, governance, sports, entertainment, culture and science.