Before Bollywood, They Were Just “The Chembur Boys”

Long before they became household names in Indian cinema, Anil Kapoor, Boney Kapoor and Sanjay Kapoor were simply three brothers growing up in the lanes of Chembur.

The Kapoor brothers spent their childhood in Tilak Nagar, Chembur, where they lived with their parents and siblings in a modest two-bedroom apartment. In several interviews over the years, the family has spoken fondly about their humble beginnings, recalling how space was limited, mattresses would be laid out in the living room at night, and everyone grew up closely together despite the constraints.

Producer Boney Kapoor has proudly described his family as “Chemburites at heart,” crediting the neighbourhood and its people for many of the values they grew up with. Actor Sanjay Kapoor has also shared memories of their simple upbringing, noting that despite modest circumstances, their parents ensured they received a good education and a warm family environment.

Anil Kapoor, who studied at Our Lady of Perpetual Succour (OLPS) School in Chembur, has often reminisced about his early years in the suburb before embarking on a film career that would span more than four decades.

In fact, a throwback photograph shared by Sanjay Kapoor on social media was affectionately captioned “The Chembur Boys” – a nod to the neighbourhood that shaped three of Bollywood’s most recognised personalities.

Today, while the Kapoor family has gone on to achieve national and international success, their connection with Chembur remains a proud part of their story.

For Chemburites, it’s a reminder that some of Bollywood’s biggest stars once called this neighbourhood home.