Shanaya Kapoor Confronts Fear of Heights During 'Tu Yaa Main' Filming
In a revealing interview, actor Shanaya Kapoor has opened up about how filming the survival drama 'Tu Yaa Main' forced her to confront one of her most persistent personal struggles: a deep-seated fear of heights. The star kid, who comes from a prominent film family, shared that the production demanded she maintain composure even when anxiety threatened to overwhelm her during particularly challenging sequences.
The Ledge Scene That Tested Her Nerves
Speaking to ANI, Kapoor described in detail how a specific ledge sequence became the ultimate test of her mental fortitude. "When we were shooting a ledge scene, I was walking straight. But in my mind, it felt like I was going that way because I just have a fear of heights," she explained. "At that moment, Shanaya was tense, but Avani was very calm. I had to bring that same calmness in the scene, which was challenging."
The actor revealed that she relied on multiple support systems to complete the demanding scene:
- Intensive training and workshop preparation
- Constant guidance from director Bejoy Nambiar
- Supportive energy from co-star Adarsh Gourav
- Mental focus techniques she developed during filming
Mental Focus as the Ultimate Tool
Kapoor emphasized that mental discipline became her most valuable asset throughout the filming process. "I think it was all about just being in the moment. Stay calm. Don't overthink. And just give it your best shot," she said. "And learn whatever you've learnt in the workshop. Try and use it on set."
The actor described how this approach helped her separate her personal anxieties from her character's requirements, allowing her to deliver a performance that matched the survival thriller's intense demands.
Collaborative Support System
Kapoor was quick to credit her director and acting coach for helping her shape her character Avani. "I should just give credit to Bejoy Sir and to my acting coach, Atul sir. I think it was both of them that helped me bring the character to life," she acknowledged.
Her on-screen partnership with Adarsh Gourav also proved instrumental. "When I was performing the scenes, I was performing with Adarsh, my co-actor. He was giving me so much energy, which made it easier for me to respond and stay in the moment," Kapoor shared.
Fatherly Wisdom and Industry Perspective
The actor has often turned to advice from her father, veteran actor Sanjay Kapoor, especially following her debut film 'Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan' which failed to make a significant impact at the box office. "Dad always says, 'put your head down and keep doing the work.' They always say: work with a pure heart, and always know that the camera catches everything," she revealed.
Kapoor elaborated on this guidance: "So, have an honest heart. Because when you are honest and working with sincerity, only good things will come to you. You will be able to present the character more effectively. So, he always tells me, just do good work and do it with a good heart."
Background and Career Trajectory
Born on November 3, 1999, in Mumbai to Sanjay Kapoor and Maheep Kapoor, Shanaya Kapoor grew up immersed in the world of cinema. Before stepping in front of the camera, she gained valuable behind-the-scenes experience as an assistant director on 'Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl' in 2020, which provided her with comprehensive insight into filmmaking processes.
Kapoor made her industry debut as a lead actor in 2025 with 'Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan' before switching gears dramatically for 'Tu Yaa Main', a survival thriller produced by Aanand L Rai that released in theaters on February 13. The film represents a significant departure from her debut and showcases her willingness to tackle physically and emotionally demanding roles.
Through this challenging experience, Kapoor has demonstrated not only her acting capabilities but also her personal resilience in overcoming deeply ingrained fears to deliver authentic performances under pressure.
