‘Showman of Indian cinema’
Raj Kapoor, born as Ranbir Raj Kapoor on December 14, 1924, in Peshawar, remains one of the most celebrated figures in Indian cinema. Hailing from a legendary film dynasty, he was the eldest son of iconic actor and theatre personality Prithviraj Kapoor. Raj Kapoor carved a niche for himself as an actor, director and producer, earning the moniker ‘The Showman of Indian Cinema’.
Kapoor’s cinematic journey began at the age of 10, with a brief appearance in Inquilab (1935). However, the big break came with the film Neel Kamal (1947), where he starred opposite Madhubala. At 24, Raj Kapoor became the youngest filmmaker of his time, founding his production company, RK Films, in 1948. His directorial debut, Aag (1948), though not a commercial success, showcased his innovative storytelling and set the stage for his illustrious career.
The turning point in his career came with Barsaat (1949), a romantic drama that established him as a star and solidified the iconic image of him with a violin under the rain. This was followed by a string of memorable films like Awaara (1951), Shree 420 (1955) and Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai (1960). These films not only entertained but also addressed social and political issues, reflecting his commitment to meaningful cinema.
Kapoor’s portrayal of the common man resonated with audiences. His ‘tramp’ persona, inspired by Charlie Chaplin, became a symbol of resilience and optimism in post-Independence India.
