As Anil Kapoor celebrates his birthday on December 24, Ultra Play OTT is marking the occasion with a special curation titled The Anil Kapoor Fest, paying tribute to the enduring legacy of one of Hindi cinema’s most versatile and beloved stars.

Fondly known as the “Forever Young” actor, Kapoor’s journey through decades of Hindi cinema has been defined by constant reinvention, memorable characters and an energy that continues to resonate across generations.

According to a press release, the curated collection brings together some of Anil Kapoor’s most iconic performances, tracing his evolution from a sensitive newcomer to a pop-culture phenomenon and a powerful dramatic performer. Spanning several decades, the festival revisits films that not only shaped his career but also left a lasting imprint on Indian cinema by breaking stereotypes and redefining mainstream storytelling.

The lineup opens with ‘Woh 7 Din’ (1983), the film that introduced Anil Kapoor as a sincere and sensitive performer, laying the foundation for his long and diverse career. This is followed by ‘Meri Jung’ (1985), a breakthrough courtroom drama that firmly established him as a leading man with intensity and emotional depth. His transformation into a mass icon came with ‘Mr. India’ (1987), where his portrayal of the invisible superhero turned him into a pop-culture phenomenon loved by audiences of all ages.

The late 1980s marked a defining phase with films like ‘Tezaab’ (1988), which cemented his image as a passionate romantic hero, and ‘Ram Lakhan’ (1989), where his mischievous, street-smart Lakhan showcased his comic timing and unmatched mass appeal. In the same year, ‘Parinda’ presented a striking contrast, with Kapoor delivering a critically acclaimed performance in a dark, intense narrative that highlighted his range as an actor.

The festival also revisits ‘1942: A Love Story’ (1994), a timeless romantic drama set against the backdrop of India’s freedom movement, where Anil Kapoor blended patriotism with vulnerability. Commercial successes such as ‘Laadla’ (1994) strengthened his connect with family audiences, while ‘Virasat’ (1997) is widely regarded as one of the finest performances of his career, rooted in social realism and emotional restraint.

Rounding off the curation is ‘Nayak: The Real Hero’ (2001), a cult classic in which Anil Kapoor played a common man who unexpectedly becomes Chief Minister. The film’s themes and his powerful performance continue to feel relevant even today, underscoring his ability to reflect the pulse of the nation through cinema.

Speaking about the initiative, Sushilkumar Agrawal, CEO of Ultra Media & Entertainment Group, said Anil Kapoor’s greatest strength lies in his ability to evolve with changing times while retaining a deep emotional connection with audiences. He noted that ‘The Anil Kapoor Fest’ is Ultra Play’s way of revisiting the films, characters and screen presence that have made Kapoor a legend, while celebrating his birthday through the stories that defined his journey.

With this special festival, Ultra Play OTT reiterates its commitment to preserving and celebrating India’s cinematic heritage. By hosting a rich catalogue of Hindi classics alongside contemporary favourites, the platform offers viewers an opportunity to rediscover iconic performances and timeless stories, making cinema’s legends accessible anytime and anywhere.