As the 100th birth anniversary of the legendary actor and filmmaker Raj Kapoor approaches, his enduring legacy continues to be celebrated by his family and admirers. In a recent interview with ETimes, Aditya Raj Kapoor, the son of Shammi Kapoor, reminisced about the deep bond shared among the Kapoor brothers: Raj Kapoor, Shammi Kapoor, and Shashi Kapoor.
Aditya Raj Kapoor, who has chosen a life away from the limelight unlike his uncles and cousins, reflected on the familial warmth and camaraderie among the Kapoor siblings. “As the eldest of three brothers and one sister, Raj Uncle was a complete family man. All auspicious occasions were celebrated at his table. Shashi Uncle and dad loved him like a father figure. That experience helped the next generation to manage respect among all,” Aditya shared.
He further recalled how Raj Kapoor’s admiration for his brothers was evident during their professional collaborations. Reflecting on the time he worked as an assistant director on the set of Satyam Shivam Sundaram, Aditya said, “The way he would look at Shashi Uncle in some romantic shots, I think he was thanking God within himself for sending such a handsome man down to earth and make him his brother. He would often say, ‘Shashi doesn’t need lights, he is the light himself.’”
Aditya highlighted the commonalities shared by the Kapoor brothers, who all grew up under the tutelage of their father, the legendary Prithviraj Kapoor. “They had a theatre background and the same tuition from Prithviraj Kapoor. They ate the same food and shared the same house. Still, when they matured in their careers, they each carved a niche of their own,” Aditya said. He praised their creativity, individuality, and contribution to Indian cinema, noting that their achievements remain celebrated to this day.
To honor Raj Kapoor’s immense contribution to Indian cinema, the Kapoor family has organized the Raj Kapoor Film Festival, which begins today in Mumbai. The festival commemorates his centennial by showcasing ten of his most iconic films, spanning almost four decades. The lineup includes Aag (1948), Barsaat (1949), Awaara (1951), Shree 420 (1955), Jagte Raho (1956), Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai (1960), Sangam (1964), Mera Naam Joker (1970), Bobby (1973), and Ram Teri Ganga Maili (1985).
Raj Kapoor, often referred to as “The Showman of Indian Cinema,” remains a towering figure in Bollywood history. His films, known for their emotional depth, musical brilliance, and social commentary, continue to inspire generations of filmmakers and audiences. The film festival offers a rare opportunity for fans to revisit and celebrate the works of this cinematic maestro on the big screen.
With this heartfelt celebration, the Kapoor family and the film fraternity pay tribute to Raj Kapoor’s timeless legacy, ensuring his memory and contributions endure for years to come.
