Shanaya Kapoor Gears Up for Debut with “Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan” After Three-Year Wait
Shanaya Kapoor, daughter of Sanjay Kapoor and Maheep Kapoor, is all set to step into Bollywood with her first film Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, where she stars alongside Vikrant Massey.
Directed by Santosh Singh, the romantic musical drama recently had its trailer launch event in the city on Tuesday.
At the event, Shanaya’s father, Sanjay Kapoor, addressed the audience and expressed his emotions.
Sanjay admitted that despite working in the film industry for over 30 years, he had never been as nervous as he was that day. “Main pichle 30 saal se kaam kar raha ho, but itna nervous nahi raha. Aaj main bahot nervous hu. Usse pehle ke kuch aansoon nikal jaaye, thank you,” Sanjay said.
The trailer, featuring Shanaya and Vikrant, has created excitement among fans as it offers a glimpse into their on-screen chemistry and emotional journey.
Shanaya Kapoor as Saba: A Visually Impaired Girl
In her debut role, Shanaya Kapoor plays Saba, a visually impaired theatre artist. Vikrant Massey, known for his versatile performances, portrays a blind musician. Their chemistry has emerged as a highlight of the trailer.
The makers shared the trailer on social media with the caption, “In a world full of perfect love stories, @shanayakapoor02 and @vikrantmassey are bringing you one filled with Gustaakhiyan. #AankhonKiGustaakhiyan Trailer Out Now. Come feel the love on 11th July in cinemas near you.”
The film is based on Ruskin Bond’s much-loved short story The Eyes Have It, bringing together emotion, music, and heartfelt storytelling on screen.
Shanaya Shares Her Experience
Speaking about her experience, Shanaya called the project the most beautiful and challenging opportunity of her life.
“Playing this role has been the most beautiful and challenging experience of my life. I couldn’t have asked for a better debut. Working with Vikrant has been such a learning experience – he’s been so supportive throughout.
And Santosh sir is truly a dream director – gentle, clear in his vision, and always encouraging,” Shanaya shared.
She also expressed her excitement and nervousness, adding that this film will always remain closest to her heart.
Earlier, Shanaya had also mentioned how working with the cast and crew made the film special.
“This film has been an incredibly emotional journey for me. Being on set with such an amazing director, Santosh sir, and a talented cast like Vikrant made it all the more special — their support and energy brought so much heart to the process,” she said.
Friends Shower Support on Social Media
Soon after the trailer’s release, Shanaya’s friends from the industry showed their support. Suhana Khan re-shared the trailer and wrote, “Love love love I cannot wait it looks soo good @shanayakapoor02.”
Ananya Panday also posted the trailer on her Instagram story, writing, “Wooohooo! This looks so good! can’t wait to watch this love story in cinemas on 11th July! Best girl ever @shanayakapoor02 is magic. @vikrantmassey everything you do is (chef’s kiss emoji) All my love to the whole team!”
The Journey to Her Debut
Shanaya Kapoor was initially supposed to debut with Karan Johar’s Bedhadak, but that project was later shelved.
Reflecting on her eventual debut with Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, Shanaya told PTI, “It’s a surreal feeling, and it’s overwhelming when you see yourself on YouTube for now. I’m seeing myself and I’m putting my music videos on and I’m constantly seeing how it’s looking, what the audience has been saying, and it’s an overwhelming feeling.”
She further added, “It’s all come together, and I’m happy with how the journey has been. If it’s taken time, if it has had its ups and downs… I think it was all meant to happen for me to be here today.”
Release Date and Production Details
Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan is directed by Santosh Singh and produced by Mansi Bagla and Varun Bagla under the banners of Zee Studios, Mini Films, and Open Window Films. The film’s music is composed by Vishal Mishra.
The romantic musical is scheduled to release in cinemas on July 11, 2025, making for an emotional and heartwarming monsoon watch.
Shanaya’s Upcoming Projects
After Aankhon Ki Gustaakhiyan, Shanaya will also appear in Bejoy Nambiar’s survival thriller Tu Yaa Main, where she stars alongside Adarsh Gourav.
With her debut film set for release and upcoming projects lined up, Shanaya Kapoor is ready to make her mark in Bollywood.