Bollywood's Original 'Chhota Baccha' Omkar Kapoor Reflects on His Journey as a Child Star

Reflecting on his journey, Omkar Kapoor, the beloved 'chhota baccha' from that iconic 90s track, fondly recalls his days as a child star. He reminisces about the thrilling moments on set with legends like Govinda and Sridevi, cherishing the wisdom they imparted. Kapoor highlights the magic of retaining childlike wonder and enthusiasm, which fuels the chase of one’s aspirations.‘Chhota Baccha Jaan Ke Na Koi Aankh Dikhana Re…’ this song from 'Masoom' became every 90s kid’s anthem, and the little boy who performed it,Omkar Kapoor, became a household name overnight. As we celebrate Children’s Day, ETimes caught up with Bollywood’s original 'chhota baccha' to revisit his early memories as a child actor.Though Omkar later returned to films with 'Pyaar Ka Punchnama 2', 'Jhootha Kahin Ka' and more, he continues to be remembered fondly for his unforgettable debut as the mischievous little star who danced his way into everyone’s hearts.Omkar, that song from 'Masoom', ‘Chhota Baccha Jaan Ke’ became iconic. What are your memories from shooting it? Who choreographed it?It was one of the most memorable and special experiences of my life. The song was choreographed byChinni Prakash, one of my first teachers. I learned so much from him about dance and rhythm.Election Results 2025Bihar poll results: NDA seen making gains according to early trends; Tejashwi leads from RaghopurBypolls: High-stake battle in Jubilee hills; counting under wayThe entire song was centred around me, so it was quite a big deal!It later became a cult song, played at almost every birthday party back then. It was a naughty, playful number, and I had so much fun shooting it because I genuinely loved dancing and performing even as a child. It was shot in Kolhapur under the direction of Mahesh Kothari, who had a very clear vision for it.There were around 100 dancers on set all kids and that made it even more special.Govinda Hospitalised After Collapsing At Home, Currently Under ObservationDancing with 100 kids must have been a lot for a child! How did it feel — were you nervous or excited?Honestly, as a child you’re unaware of things like stardom or pressure — which is actually a blessing. You just follow what your teachers say and enjoy yourself without any inhibitions. That’s what I did! It was all about fun, learning, and performing with a free mind. Those formative years were so important because I got to learn from the best.You’ve worked with some of the biggest stars —Govinda,Sridevi,Anil Kapoor, Satish Shah and more. Let’s start with Govinda — did he influence your style?Oh yes, definitely! Govinda sir has always been one of my biggest inspirations.'Saara Bollywood ek taraf aur Govinda ek taraf, There can be the entire Bollywood on one side, and Govinda sir on the other! (laughs). There cannot be any other more talented actor than Govinda in our Bollywood industry. 'Na Bhuto Na Bhavishyata! He’s the most versatile actor we’ve ever had his comic timing, sense of humour, and presence of mind are unmatched.I learned so much just by watching him the way he entertained the audience, his energy on set, his spontaneity.I still try to bring that spirit to my shoots keeping things light, fun, and full of laughter. It shouldn’t feel like work; it should feel like we’re all having fun together.You also shared screen space with late Satish Shah in Hero No. 1. Any fond memories from that?Yes! Working with Satish ji was wonderful. Our association actually began with a TV show called 'Filmi Chakkar', where I played his son. So 'Hero No. 1' felt like a reunion of sorts. He was such a warm and funny person. Sadly, he’s no longer with us, but his comic timing was impeccable.Actors like him and Govinda sir taught me how important it is to enjoy what you do, to find joy in your work and keep that childlike energy alive.You also played Anil Kapoor and Sridevi’s son in Judaai. That must have been special!Oh, absolutely. My family, especially my father, was a huge fan of Sridevi ma’am. So everyone was thrilled when I got that role! Sridevi ma’am was impeccable, graceful and so professional. And Anil sir, what can I say? He’s the original rockstar! He’s evergreen, constantly reinventing himself.On set, he was extremely kind and caring towards us kids. If we made mistakes, he would guide us patiently. His confidence and energy are truly inspiring — something every actor can learn from.Any special anecdote from those days you still remember?I do remember one incident from the 'Judaai' shoot at the airport. I got distracted by the airplanes and ran off to see them — right in the middle of the climax shoot! (laughs) The whole set was looking for me, including Anil sir. When I came back, I was so embarrassed.But he just smiled and said, “It’s okay, kid, let’s start again.” That kindness really stayed with me.You had such a rich on-set education working with these legends. What’s the biggest learning you carry even today?I think every person I’ve worked with has contributed to my growth as an actor whether it was Govinda sir, Anil sir, Sridevi ma’am, or the directors I’ve collaborated with. Each of them had a different school of thought, and I got to learn from all of them.That exposure as a child actor really shaped my craft and my understanding of filmmaking.Since it’s Children’s Day, what message would you like to share with today’s kids and their parents?I’d just say, keep it light, fun, and full of dreams! What you learn as a child stays with you forever. Parents should be aware of what their kids are absorbing in those formative years.And kids — never stop dreaming! Learn, explore, and find joy in whatever you do — be it dance, music, acting, or any art form. That childlike curiosity is what keeps us alive.