New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi remembered legendary filmmaker Raj Kapoor on his 100th birth anniversary with an emotional tribute and celebrated his incomparable contribution to Indian cinema.
In a post on Twitter, PM Modi said, “Today, we celebrate the 100th birth anniversary of the great Raj Kapoor, a visionary filmmaker, actor and eternal showman! His talent transcended generations, and is an icon on Indian and global cinema. Left a lasting impression.” ,
Raj Kapoor, widely regarded as Indian cinema’s “Greatest Showman”, revolutionized the industry with his larger-than-life presence, unforgettable performances and pioneering storytelling.
From humble beginnings in Peshawar to becoming an iconic figure in Bollywood, his work has inspired generations of filmmakers and actors.
PM Modi further praised the timeless quality of Kapoor’s films and emphasized how he blended artistry, emotion and social commentary.
“His films reflect the aspirations and struggles of common citizens,” the Prime Minister said, adding that Kapoor was not just a filmmaker but also a cultural ambassador who brought Indian cinema to the global stage.
In a tribute highlighting his deep respect for Kapoor’s legacy, PM Modi said, “Generations of filmmakers and actors can learn a lot from him. I once again pay tribute to him and remember his contribution to the creative world. Am.”
Today, we are celebrating the 100th birth anniversary of the great Raj Kapoor, a visionary filmmaker, actor and eternal showman! His talent transcended generations and left an indelible mark on Indian and global cinema. -Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) 14 December 2024
On 10 December, the Kapoor family gathered for a special meeting with the Prime Minister ahead of the Raj Kapoor 100 Film Festival.
Raj Kapoor’s family members including daughter Reema Jain, daughter-in-law Neetu Kapoor, grandson Ranbir Kapoor, granddaughter Kareena Kapoor Khan, Karisma Kapoor, Riddhima Kapoor Sahni and other family members met PM Modi to discuss the upcoming celebrations.
Saif Ali Khan, Alia Bhatt and many other family members were also present in this meeting.
During the gathering, Kareena shared a touching moment when she requested the Prime Minister to sign a piece of paper for her sons, Taimur and Jeh.
PM Modi graciously wrote “Tim and Jeh” in a personal note, delighting fans and family alike.
Kareena later posted pictures on social media expressing her gratitude for the “special afternoon” and wrote, “We are deeply humbled and honored to be invited by the Honorable Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to celebrate the extraordinary life and legacy of Are doing.” Our grandfather, the great Raj Kapoor.”
The Kapoor family’s efforts to celebrate Raj Kapoor’s centenary culminated in a star-studded film festival, which began in Mumbai on the evening of December 13.
The festival, aptly named ‘Raj Kapoor 100: Celebrating the Centenary of the Greatest Showman’, is a multi-city event that will run till December 15.
It is organized by RK Films, Film Heritage Foundation and National Film Archive of India. The festival will screen ten of Kapoor’s most iconic films across 40 cities and 135 theatres.
Selected films include ‘Aag’ (1948), ‘Barsaat’ (1949), ‘Awara’ (1951), ‘Shree 420’ (1955), ‘Jaagte Raho’ (1956), ‘Jis Desh Mein Ganga Bahati Hai’ . (1960), ‘Sangam’ (1964), ‘Mera Naam Joker’ (1970), ‘Bobby’ (1973), and ‘Ram Teri Ganga Maili’ (1985).
These films have made a place in the hearts of cinema lovers across the world not only for their story but also for their iconic music and memorable performances.
On the opening night of the festival, members of the Kapoor family, including Randhir Kapoor, Babita Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Karisma Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor, came together to pay tribute to Raj Kapoor’s lasting impact.
The family’s collective pride at the occasion was evident as they posed for an iconic photo, capturing the unity and joy surrounding the celebration.
Raj Kapoor’s status as one of the most important figures in Indian cinema is undeniable. His films often dealt with social issues and addressed the dreams and struggles of common people.
As an actor, director and producer, he revolutionized Bollywood with his unique approach to storytelling, his unique screen presence and his ability to blend music, drama and comedy that mesmerized audiences.
Kapoor’s work was also instrumental in taking Indian cinema to international audiences, ensuring that his legacy reached far beyond the Indian subcontinent.
