Sunil Grover says his impersonations happen instinctively

Sunil Grover says his impersonations happen instinctively

For many viewers, a sudden change in voice or expression is enough to recognise a familiar celebrity impression on stage. Over the years, Indian and actor comedian Sunil Grover has become known for slipping into the mannerisms of well-known actors during television performances.

The Gabbar is Back actor, who often imitates film stars such as Aamir Khan, Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, said the idea for many of these acts appears during the moment of performance.

“It just happens. Hum toh karte rehte hain aur kayi baar cheezein click kar jaati hain. It’s instinctive,” Grover said while discussing his creative process. “I see it as a gift and I try to preserve and nurture it. Even I sometimes wonder, ‘Did I really do that?’”

The Bharat actor is currently entertaining audiences on the popular comedy programme The Great Indian Kapil Show, where his impersonations and comic characters regularly become viral moments online.

Despite spending many years in television and live entertainment, Grover said the nervous feeling before stepping on stage has never disappeared.

“It’s not just butterflies, sometimes it feels like huge birds are flying inside,” he said. He added that a certain level of pressure is helpful because it motivates performers to give their best on stage.

At the same time, he noted that excessive pressure can affect a performance negatively. For him, the real concern appears only when there is no work to do.

One of Grover’s most discussed acts involved his imitation of celebrated poet and lyricist Gulzar. The comedian said he initially hesitated because of the deep respect he holds for the writer.

“He is such a respected and celebrated poet and writer. Presenting him in a comic light had to be done carefully,” Grover explained.

Grover’s recent impersonation of Aamir Khan gained attention on social media. The comedian said the PK actor appreciated the performance and described it as “fantastic”.

For Grover, the praise held special value because he admires Khan’s dedication to his craft. “I respect his passion for his craft and the love he has for his work,” he said.

While Grover has built a large fan base through television and digital platforms, he said he values artistic ability more than fame.

“Stardom bohot achhi cheez hai, par main unki skills ka fan hoon,” he said, adding that an artist’s approach to their work matters more to him than popularity.

Grover also recalled the early days of his career after moving to Mumbai. At the time, he managed his expenses with small daily earnings while searching for acting opportunities.