Sunil Grover Opens Up About His Gift of Impersonation and the Journey of Stardom
If there is one artist who can effortlessly slip into the skin of Bollywood icons like Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, or even the legendary poet Gulzar with uncanny ease, it is undoubtedly Sunil Grover. His razor-sharp impersonations have consistently set the internet abuzz, with his take on Aamir Khan earning praise from the actor himself. In this revealing conversation, Sunil reflects deeply on his craft, the pressures of performance, his admiration for the stars he mimics, and the gradual, slow-burn nature of his rise to fame.
'It’s a Gift I Try to Preserve and Nurture'
When asked about his remarkable ability to capture voices and mannerisms so accurately, Sunil admits he doesn't fully comprehend how it happens. He explains, "It just happens. We keep doing it, and many times things just click. It's instinctive. I see it as a gift, and I try to preserve and nurture it. Even I surprise myself sometimes and think, 'Did I really do that?' Sometimes it doesn't land, but that's part of the journey. When it doesn't happen, one should understand that preparation is still ongoing."
The Nervousness Never Truly Disappears
Despite bringing countless characters to life with such finesse, Sunil acknowledges that nervousness never truly vanishes. He shares, "It's not just butterflies in the stomach; sometimes it feels like huge birds are flying inside! Pressure should only be to the extent that it helps you give your best. If you take too much pressure, you won't perform well. Our job is to enjoy what we do. The only real pressure is when there is no work."
Presenting Gulzar Saab with Care and Reverence
Sunil recalls hesitating before performing one of his most talked-about acts—the impersonation of Gulzar saab. He says, "There was an impersonation of Gulzar saab. I kept wondering at night whether I should attempt it and how it would be received. He is such a respected and celebrated poet and writer. Presenting him in a comic light had to be done carefully, especially since we were blending humour with reverence."
Stardom Doesn't Make Any Difference to Me
His recent impersonation of Aamir Khan became a major talking point when the actor himself called it fantastic and admitted he laughed the loudest while watching it. Sunil describes that appreciation as deeply affirming. He shares, "When appreciation comes from someone like Aamir Khan, whom I admire, it feels deeply rewarding. I respect his passion for his craft and the love he has for his work." For Sunil, however, it is never about fame. He states, "Stardom is a very good thing, and popularity is achieved, but I am a fan of their skills. An artist's art intimidates me—their approach to art, their talent, and what they do with it. That amazes me more than a person's popularity. Stardom doesn't make any difference to me."
The Early Beginnings in Class Six
His journey into impersonation began at a young age. Sunil recalls, "I was in class six when I first impersonated veteran actor Rajendra Nath. He remains my favourite. Watching him brought me immense joy. Of course, I was copying teachers and relatives. That's how it all began." Did that lay the foundation for his comedy? He reflects, "Many times, you start doing what people like about you. I didn't know people would enjoy my impersonations. There was a phase of Gutthi and Mashoor Gulati. Now the impersonation phase is ongoing, so let's see how long we can enjoy it. Sometimes I also fear whether the audience will like it or not."
Impersonation as a Tribute and Celebration
In an era where celebrities are increasingly protective of their personality rights, Sunil takes a light-hearted view. "The work I am doing, I hope no one stops it," he jokes, adding, "A colleague once suggested that I secure my personality rights. I told him, 'I am copying others myself, what are you telling me about personality rights? How will I stop anyone?'" For him, impersonation is deeply rooted in admiration. "Unless I genuinely like someone, I cannot impersonate them. There has to be something distinct about them that fascinates me. I must enjoy the process of becoming them. I don't see it as mere mimicry. It's a celebration of people," he emphasises.
Wondering Whether He Deserves All the Love
The internet often hails him as 'exceptional', compares him to a chameleon, and describes him as someone who has redefined the word 'behroopiya'. When asked about his stardom, he laughs, "This happened so slowly that I didn't even realise it. When it comes to popularity and its ups and downs, I relate to Sahir Ludhianvi's line, 'I am a poet of a moment'. It sums it up. Although it reflects reality, you cannot work by listening to that reality." He adds, "I feel fortunate and grateful for all this love. Sometimes I wonder whether I deserve it. The joy lies in seeing something you once enjoyed privately beginning to resonate with others. When people connect with it, that makes me truly happy. I'm simply grateful and hope to continue doing what I love."
