On December 14, 1924, Ranbir Raj Kapoor was born to Prithviraj Kapoor and Ramsarni Devi in Peshawar. Since his father was already popular in theatre and films, Raj Kapoor debuted with “Inquilab” (1935) only at the age of 11. But he got his big break, 12 years later, in the movie “Neel Kamal” (1947) where he starred opposite the divine Bollywood beauty Madhubala. By the time he turned 24, he had established his own banner – “RK Films” in 1948, one year after India gained independence. The first movie under this banner was “Aag”. On the 31st death anniversary of the acclaimed icon Wedding Affair pays a tribute the great Raj Kapoor.
Most Iconic Works
Raj is remembered as the ‘Charlie Chaplin of Indian cinema’ because he often portrayed a tramp-like figure in his movies. He had a great sense of what really worked at the box office and was one of the pioneers who believed in the potential of the revenue that the Indian film industry could generate. Many of his movies had a patriotic theme and these movies till date give their viewers goosebumps with an iconic storyline in each of the creations such as – “Aag”, “Shree 420”, “Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai”, etc.
Acting And Directorial Ventures
Raj introduced female actors like Nimmi, Dimple Kapadia, Nargis and Mandakini. As well as his sons, Rajiv Kapoor, Rishi Kapoor and Randhir Kapoor. He introduced music directors Shankar-Jaikishan who remained his favourite till the time Jaikishen passed away. Raj set a trend in Bollywood with milestone movies such as “Awara”, “Shree 420”, “Sangam” and “Teesri Kasam”. His film “Mera Naam Joker” in 1972 was not received well. Hence, in the latter half of the ’70s and early ’80s, the actor-filmmaker started producing and directing movies such as “Satyam Shivam Sundaram”, “Prem Rog” and “Ram Teri Ganga Maili” which revolved around female protagonists. For his contributions to the Indian film industry, the Government of India awarded him with the Padma Bhushan in 1971. Also, the Dadasaheb Phalke Award in 1987.
Honours
He was also named as ‘Showman of the Millennium’ by Star Screen Awards in 2002. His films attracted worldwide audiences. Particularly in Asia and Europe. He was also known as “The Clark Gable of The Indian Film Industry”. He received multiple accolades. Including three National Film Awards and eleven Filmfare Awards in India. He was a two-time nominee for the Palme d’Or grand prize at the Cannes Film Festival. He won them for his outstanding films “Awaara” (1951) and “Boot Polish” (1954). The Showman is surely not physically present among us today with us. But his very own, authentic pomp and splendour, but his legacy will always remind us of this great personality.
Also Read: Sajid-Wajid’s Musical Journey Together
