Annu Kapoor believes an actor’s personal beliefs should remain separate from the characters they portray. In his upcoming comedy-drama Uttar Da Puttar, the veteran actor plays a physics professor whose unwavering faith in Vastu drives the story, a sharp contrast to his own worldview. He says, “I’m an atheist, but that doesn’t mean I disrespect any religion or anyone’s beliefs. When producer Sandiip Kapoor approached me with the role of a physics professor who passionately believes in Vastu, I accepted it immediately. As an actor, what excites me is the opportunity to play characters that are completely different from who I am in real life.” While drawing a distinction between his personal convictions and his professional choices, Kapoor also stresses that his curiosity about different belief systems has never been at odds with his profession. He says, “I have read several books on palmistry and astrology out of curiosity and for the sake of knowledge. But those are my personal experiences and interests. They should not be confused with my professional work as an actor.” Addressing the controversies that have occasionally surrounded his public statements, Kapoor maintains that his views have often been misconstrued. He explains, “Many times, my statements are taken out of context and unnecessary controversies are created. I have never mocked anyone’s faith, nor have I ever intended to hurt anyone through my words. I respect every individual’s right to believe what they choose.” For him, the contrast between his own beliefs and those of his on-screen character is simply part of an actor’s craft. He shares, “The contrast between my real life and the character exists only behind the curtain of cinema. That is the beauty of acting. An actor doesn’t have to become the character in real life; he only has to make the audience believe the character on screen.” On what audiences can expect from the film, Kapoor believes Uttar Da Puttar balances humour with a larger message. “This film entertains, but it also leaves the audience with an important message. I would simply ask everyone to watch the trailer till the very end. When my character’s wife tells him, ‘Is Vastu ke chakkar mein tum darpok ho gaye ho,’ that single dialogue captures the essence of the film.” Besides Annu Kapoor, Uttar Da Puttar, written and directed by Ravinder Siwach, also stars Rukhsar Rehman, Brijendra Kala, Pavan Malhotra, Ishtiyak Khan, Jeeveshu Ahluwalia, Rajendra Sethi, Sumit Gulati and Nitin Arora in pivotal roles.