{
  "id": 18152063,
  "title": "'Inside, I Was Shaking': Kunal Kapoor Recalls Confronting A Goon At Mumbai's Prithvi Theatre",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/04/inside-i-was-shaking-kunal-kapoor-recalls-confronting-a-goon-at",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-04T16:56:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Free Press Journal",
    "slug": "free-press-journal",
    "url": "https://www.freepressjournal.in/entertainment/inside-i-was-shaking-kunal-kapoor-recalls-confronting-a-goon-at-mumbais-prithvi-theatre"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Mumbai’s Prithvi Theatre is a revered institution in the world of theatre, and its trustees, Kunal Kapoor and his son Zahan Kapoor, recently shared a fascinating story about the theatre’s history. The annual Prithvi Theatre Festival, running from November 1 to November 16, provided the perfect platform to recall this incident.\n\nIn the early nineties, a local goon started demanding money, known as hafta, from Prithvi Theatre staff as he came to work. Kunal Kapoor recounted his encounter with the goon, explaining that he recognized the individual immediately. Despite his fear, Kunal approached the goon and firmly told him, “This place is like a mandir, a masjid for us. Don’t come here.” Kunal admits that inside, he was trembling, fearing for his safety. However, the goon simply looked at him and departed, never to return.\n\nKunal emphasizes that the theatre's success is rooted in its honesty and pure intentions. He credits the theatre's open philosophy for its reputation. Zahan adds that Prithvi's design fosters a sense of welcome, with no security checks or gates at the entrance. This open-door policy creates an atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable and respected.\n\nThe Prithvi Theatre Festival highlights the enduring spirit of the theatre, with 13 premieres and 30 main-stage performances, alongside Fringe shows and various screenings. As a reminder of the past, Kunal Kapoor’s story serves as a testament to the theatre's resilience and unwavering commitment to its mission.",
  "summary": "Mumbai: Hindi film celebrities are receiving threats – and how! But would you believe that, years ago, a goon tried to extort money from the staff of a place anyone who loves or lives theatre considers sacred? The place is Prithvi Theatre in Juhu, which turns 48 on November 5. Its annual festival (Prithvi Theatre Festival), which opened on November 1, runs till November 16. Speaking exclusively…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}