December 4, 2024: As the 100th birth anniversary of Raj Kapoor, one of India’s greatest filmmakers, approaches, his granddaughter, actress Kareena Kapoor Khan, has paid tribute to his legacy.
Taking to Instagram, Kareena shared the official centenary celebration poster of her grandfather, affectionately known as “India’s Greatest Showman,” inviting fans to join in a special screening of Raj Kapoor’s most iconic films.
In her heartfelt message, Kareena wrote:
“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. #RajKapoor100”
Alia Bhatt Also took to instagram stories
Taking to instagram, Karisma Kapoor feels proud proud to announce the Raj Kapoor Festival
She Wrote: We are so proud to announce the Raj Kapoor Festival ❤️
A tribute to the visionary who shaped Indian cinema. 10 films. 40 cities. 135 cinemas. Celebrate Raj Kapoor’s birth centenary through an unforgettable experience. #RajKapoor100
Join us between Dec 13- 15, 2024 as we honor my grandfather the legend, and his unmatchable contribution to the film industry, inspiring generations.
To mark this significant occasion, a special film festival will showcase 10 of Raj Kapoor’s most famous works across India. From December 13 to 15, his celebrated films will be screened in 40 cities and 135 cinemas, including PVR-Inox and Cinepolis theaters. The screenings will offer a chance to experience his films in state-of-the-art cinema halls, making it an unforgettable tribute to his legacy.
As part of the celebration, movie tickets will be priced at just Rs 100 across all participating theaters, making this an affordable yet significant event for cinema lovers. The screenings will include classics like Aag, Barsaat, Awaara, Shree 420, Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai, Mera Naam Joker, Bobby, Ram Teri Ganga Maili, and others that have shaped the landscape of Indian cinema.
Raj Kapoor’s grandson, actor Ranbir Kapoor, also took part in honoring his grandfather’s legacy at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2024. Speaking about the restoration of Raj Kapoor’s films, Ranbir highlighted the collective efforts behind bringing his grandfather’s classics back to life. The restoration process was a joint initiative by the National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC), the National Film Archive of India (NFAI), and the Film Heritage Foundation.
At IFFI, Ranbir shared:
“It’s important we remember our roots—not just Raj Kapoor, but so many filmmakers and artists who have left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.”
This restoration ensures that Raj Kapoor’s iconic works will continue to be appreciated by new generations of moviegoers.
Raj Kapoor’s contributions to Indian cinema are immeasurable. Over his illustrious career spanning nearly four decades, he became known for his unique ability to blend commercial cinema with artistic excellence. His films, which often touched upon social issues with grace, humor, and emotional depth, captivated audiences across generations.
Beginning his career as a child actor in Inquilab (1935), Raj Kapoor’s breakthrough came in 1947 with Neel Kamal. He went on to create some of Indian cinema’s most iconic films. As both an actor and a filmmaker, he founded RK Films in 1948, which became a cornerstone of Bollywood’s golden age.
Some of his most memorable works include Awaara (1951), Shree 420 (1955), Mera Naam Joker (1970), and Bobby (1973). Known for his ability to blend romance with social commentary, Raj Kapoor’s works transcended regional and cultural boundaries, making him a global icon. His portrayal of the “common man” often resonated with audiences, and his charm as a performer further cemented his place in cinematic history.
As Raj Kapoor’s 100th birth anniversary draws near, this celebration of his legacy serves as a reminder of his profound influence on Indian cinema and global film culture.
Details of the Raj Kapoor 100th Birth Anniversary Screenings:
- Dates: December 13-15, 2024
- Cinemas: 40 cities and 135 cinemas, including PVR-Inox and Cinepolis
- Ticket Price: Rs 100 across all participating cinemas
- Films to be Screened: Aag, Barsaat, Awaara, Shree 420, Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai, Mera Naam Joker, Bobby, Ram Teri Ganga Maili, and more.
This celebration is an opportunity for fans to reconnect with the magic of Raj Kapoor’s cinema and witness his timeless contribution to the world of film.