In celebration of the 100th birth anniversary of the legendary Raj Kapoor, a grand retrospective titled Raj Kapoor 100 – Celebrating the Centenary of the Greatest Showman will be presented by R.K. Films, the Film Heritage Foundation, and the NFDC-National Film Archive of India. This event, honoring one of Indian cinema’s most influential figures, will showcase ten of his most iconic films across 40 cities and 135 cinemas in India. Scheduled to take place from December 13 to December 15, 2024, the screenings will be held in premier venues such as PVR-Inox and Cinepolis cinemas, ensuring that moviegoers across the country have the opportunity to experience Raj Kapoor's films in top-tier environments.
To make this centenary celebration even more inclusive, the movie tickets will be priced at an incredibly affordable Rs 100 at all participating cinemas. This special pricing reflects the accessibility and inclusivity that Raj Kapoor championed through his films. His works, known for connecting deeply with audiences from all walks of life, are an enduring tribute to the man who captured the hearts of generations through his powerful storytelling. The pricing also serves as a reminder of Kapoor’s commitment to making cinema a universal experience, inviting new generations to discover the magic of his films and revisiting the timeless classics that have shaped the landscape of Indian cinema.
Veteran actor Randhir Kapoor, Raj Kapoor’s son, spoke emotionally about his father’s profound influence on Indian cinema. He described Raj Kapoor as a visionary who crafted films that spoke to the hearts of the common man, touching upon themes of love, struggle, and hope. “Raj Kapoor was not just a filmmaker; he was a visionary who shaped the emotional landscape of Indian cinema. His stories are more than just films; they are powerful, emotional journeys that connect generations of viewers. This festival is our humble tribute to the greatness of his vision,” Randhir said. His words resonate with the immense impact Raj Kapoor's works have had, transcending time and continuing to influence filmmakers and audiences around the world.
Ranbir Kapoor, Raj Kapoor’s grandson and one of Bollywood’s leading actors, also shared his thoughts on the centenary tribute. Ranbir expressed deep pride in his grandfather’s legacy and the lasting influence his films continue to have. “We take immense pride in being members of the Raj Kapoor family. Our generation stands on the shoulders of a giant whose films captured the spirit of their time and gave a voice to the common man over decades. His timeless stories continue to inspire, and this festival is our way of honoring that magic and inviting everyone to experience his legacy on the big screen. See you at the movies,” he said, encapsulating the family’s gratitude and respect for Raj Kapoor’s work.
The festival will feature some of Raj Kapoor’s most cherished films, spanning nearly four decades of cinematic brilliance. The lineup includes masterpieces such as 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). Each of these films reflects Kapoor’s ability to blend emotional depth with entertainment, touching on themes of social justice, love, sacrifice, and the human condition. His ability to depict the struggles of the common man and his love for innovation in storytelling are evident in every frame.
Raj Kapoor (1924–1988) is regarded as one of the most influential filmmakers in Indian cinema and a key figure in shaping the cultural landscape of the country. With a career spanning over four decades, he left an indelible mark not only on Indian cinema but also on global cinema. Fondly referred to as “The Greatest Showman,” Kapoor was not just a director and actor; he was a visionary who created films that spoke to the soul of the nation. He founded the iconic R.K. Films studio in 1948, and his films explored a wide range of themes, from the dreams and aspirations of the common man to the emotional landscape of post-Partition India. His films often tackled issues of social inequality, urbanization, and the rural-urban divide, with a deep empathy for the struggles of everyday people.
Kapoor’s iconic tramp character, inspired by Charlie Chaplin, became a universal symbol of innocence and resilience, and it resonated strongly with audiences both in India and abroad, particularly in the Soviet Union, where he is still a celebrated figure. His films were known for their music, which often became as iconic as the films themselves, with compositions by legendary composers like Shankar Jaikishan, who worked with Kapoor on numerous projects.
Raj Kapoor’s films such as Awaara, Shree 420, and Mera Naam Joker have not only achieved immense popularity in India but also gained recognition on the international stage. Kapoor’s films were featured at major international film festivals, including the Cannes Film Festival, and earned accolades like the Crystal Globe at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. He received numerous awards throughout his career, including the Padma Bhushan (1971), the Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1988), and several Filmfare Awards. His films, particularly Awaara and Boot Polish, were celebrated for their emotional depth, social relevance, and cinematic innovation, earning him a spot as one of the most globally recognized filmmakers from India.
Raj Kapoor’s legacy continues to inspire generations of filmmakers, actors, and cinema lovers around the world. This centenary celebration will ensure that his timeless stories and unforgettable cinematic achievements live on, providing a fitting tribute to a man whose films captured the pulse of a nation and touched the hearts of millions across the globe.
