Raj Kapoor’s 100th Birth Anniversary: Kapoor Family to Host Grand Film Festival Celebrations

The Kapoor family is gearing up to mark the 100th birth anniversary of their patriarch, the legendary actor-director Raj Kapoor, with a series of grand celebrations. The family even traveled to New Delhi recently to invite Prime Minister Narendra Modi to join the celebrations as part of the special occasion. A series of videos from their meeting with PM Modi went viral on social media, with netizens sharing a mix of reactions.

The family members were seen donning traditional ethnic attire for the occasion. Notably, Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt arrived together, followed by Saif Ali Khan, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Neetu Kapoor, and Karisma Kapoor.

During their brief interaction, Prime Minister Modi expressed his admiration for Raj Kapoor’s monumental contribution to Indian cinema, underscoring the enduring power of films from that era. He also reflected on the role Raj Kapoor played in establishing Indian cinema's global reputation long before the concept of “soft power” gained international attention.

PM Modi Pays Tribute to Raj Kapoor’s Influence

"In 1947, we had 'Neel Kamal,' and now as we approach 2047, it reflects the immense contribution of such a vast nation. Today, there is much talk about soft power in diplomacy, but back then, Raj Kapoor had already showcased India's strength in this area to the world," PM Modi remarked during the meeting.

Raj Kapoor's 100th Birth Anniversary: Film Festival Celebrating His Legacy

In honor of Raj Kapoor’s 100th birth anniversary, the Kapoor family has organized a special film festival, featuring a curated selection of his most iconic films. The Raj Kapoor 100: Celebrating the Centenary of the Greatest Showman festival, in collaboration with the Film Heritage Foundation and the National Film Archive of India (NFDC), will take place from December 13 to December 15. The screenings will be held at PVR-Inox and Cinepolis theaters in 40 cities, across 135 locations throughout India.

Fans of Raj Kapoor’s work will be able to revisit his timeless classics, including Mera Naam Joker, Awaara, Sangam, and Shree 420 among others. This initiative seeks to showcase his cinematic brilliance to a new generation of viewers while paying homage to his everlasting influence on Indian film.

Ranbir Kapoor and Kareena Kapoor Khan Share Their Tribute

As part of the celebrations, Ranbir Kapoor spoke about his grandfather's continuing influence on the film industry and revealed the family’s plans to honor Raj Kapoor through the Raj Kapoor Film Festival. Speaking at the 55th International Film Festival of India in Goa, Ranbir said, “We are going to organise the Raj Kapoor Film Festival from December 13 to December 15 all over India. I hope you guys come as well. I remember the first time I met Alia, she asked me ‘Who’s Kishore Kumar?’ It’s just a circle of life, people are forgotten. It’s important we remember our roots.”

On social media, Kareena Kapoor Khan, too, paid a heartfelt tribute to her late grandfather. She shared her emotions on Instagram, saying, “His legacy lives on. We are so proud to celebrate the 100th birth anniversary of my grandfather, India’s Greatest Showman, Raj Kapoor. Join us from Dec 13-15, 2024, on a nostalgic journey through his most iconic films, screening in 40 cities and 135 cinemas."

Raj Kapoor's Enduring Legacy in Indian Cinema

Raj Kapoor remains one of the most influential figures in the history of Indian cinema. His contributions have shaped the landscape of Bollywood, creating films that have stood the test of time. Known for his groundbreaking films such as Barsaat, Shree 420, Awaara, Jagte Raho, Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai, Mera Naam Joker, Bobby, and Ram Teri Ganga Maili, Kapoor’s legacy continues to inspire filmmakers and actors alike. He received numerous accolades throughout his career, including the prestigious Padma Bhushan and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.

The films of Raj Kapoor are not only celebrated for their artistic merit but are also remembered for the global impact they made. His cinematic vision and storytelling style introduced the world to the charm of Indian culture long before the concept of “soft power” became a term in international diplomacy.

In honor of his centenary, the upcoming Raj Kapoor Film Festival will screen several of his masterpieces, inviting audiences across India to revisit the magic of his cinema and celebrate the unparalleled influence he had on Indian film.

Conclusion

As Raj Kapoor’s 100th birth anniversary approaches, the Kapoor family is pulling out all the stops to celebrate the legacy of one of the greatest showmen of Indian cinema. The Raj Kapoor Film Festival, running from December 13 to 15, will allow fans to experience the genius of his timeless films on the big screen once more. Through these celebrations, Kapoor’s legacy continues to inspire and remind us of the enduring power of cinema to shape culture and society.