Exclusive: “It’s Not Just a Book, It’s My Life”-Anupam Kher on Different But No Less

In a world where standing out often feels like a disadvantage, veteran actor and author Anupam Kher redefines what it means to be “different.” In his latest book, Different but No Less, Kher draws from his own life’s journey from a small-town boy in Shimla to one of India’s most respected names in cinemato remind readers that being unique is not a limitation, but a hidden strength.

In an exclusive conversation with us, he opens up about the deeply personal roots of the book, the experiences that shaped it, and the message he hopes stays with every reader.

Q.1: Did you draw any similarities or inspirations from your own life and your own journey? Because it sounds like a deeply personal narrative! Or it was purely from your experiences while making the film?

I am a perfect example of being Different but No Less. When I came to the city, I didn’t have a place to stay. I had no hair, I was thin, and yet I told myself that I’m no less. The phrase is very personal to me, but it also applies to everyone. We often accept our mediocrity too easily we shouldn’t. Even when we showed the film to the Hon’ble President of India, I told her she too is the biggest example of Different but No Less. She is a tribal woman who now holds the highest post in the country. What could be a stronger testament?

Q.2: What inspired you to write Different but No Less? You said that it’s the strongest thing you have done in your life? Why do you say that because your achievements are countless!

This book, like my others, comes directly from my life. I don’t sit down to write philosophy, I write what I’ve lived. That’s what gives my books their power and resonance. This one, in particular, is driven by the core belief that being different is not a disadvantage. I portrayed autism as a superpower in Tanvi the Great. This book goes even further—it changes people not just through performance but through thought. And when you can change someone’s mindset, that’s more lasting than anything else.

Q.3: How does your background as an actor influence your writing style or the way you tell stories?

My experiences as an actor help me empathise, observe deeply, and connect emotionally with people. But my books are not about acting—they are about life. I’ve written four motivational books, all rooted in real-life experiences. They’re not instructional; they’re introspective. They’re not performative; they’re personal. I write as someone who has lived through struggles and come out stronger.

Q.4: In what ways do you hope Different but No Less will inspire or impact readers, especially those who feel marginalized or underestimated?

The book will empower them. It will remind them that their uniqueness is their strength. I don’t write things I don’t believe in. Readers will find reflections of their own lives in the pages and they will feel seen, heard, and uplifted. That’s the biggest gift I can give through my writing.

Q.5: Were there any specific moments in your life or career when you felt 'different but no less'? How did you overcome those situations?

So many! When I came to Mumbai, I was bald and thin, and looks mattered more than talent at that time. My first role at 28 was playing a 65-year-old man. That’s the definition of being different but no less. Even now, I haven’t written a book on acting—I’ve written about life. I’ve started an acting school, a foundation—everything I’ve done has stemmed from a place of purpose, not convention. And that’s what has kept me going.

Q.6: What advice would you give to someone who feels "different" and is struggling to find their place in the world or in a creative field?

Treat people with kindness. Inspire them. Make them feel good about themselves—because that’s what creates real change. Whoever you are, whatever your capacity, uplift others. And always remember—you are different, yes, but never any less.

Q.7: What are your further plans of writing and your upcoming projects which you can talk about?

As of now, there’s no new book planned. I just released this one four days ago. There will be a book tour, signings in different cities, but I’ll take a break from writing for at least a year.