Rakesh Roshan Says Rishi Kapoor Was “Little Dissatisfied” With His Career

March 18, 2025: Rakesh Roshan recently opened up about his deep friendship with the late Rishi Kapoor, recalling their first meeting on the sets of the 1975 film Khel Khel Mein, a musical thriller where Kapoor’s wife, Neetu Kapoor, also starred. Over the years, the two shared a strong bond and collaborated on various films, such as Jhoota Kahin Ka (1979) and Aap Ke Deewane (1980).

Rakesh Roshan fondly reminisced about Rishi Kapoor, who was affectionately called “Chintu” by his colleagues in the film industry. Roshan shared how passionate Kapoor was about his craft and how he delivered incredible performances throughout his career. However, he also spoke candidly about a phase in Kapoor’s life when he felt a bit dissatisfied with his career.

“He did amazing work before he left us. All his last films were amazing. He took on different kinds of roles, and he was so happy. You will not believe… he used to call me and say, ‘Aaj maine yeh picture sign ki hai… Usme main ganja bhi ho raha hoon, buddha ho raha hoon, 80 saal ka. Roz mujhe makeup karna padta hai 4 ghante, 5 ghante,'” Roshan recalled.

Roshan revealed that there was a time when Kapoor, despite his long and successful career, felt stuck in repetitive roles. “In the middle, yes, he got a little bored. He would say, ‘Yaar, wahi same cheez, wahi role, wahi kar raha hoon.’ He was a little dissatisfied with his career,” Roshan added.

Despite this phase of dissatisfaction, Rishi Kapoor ended his career on a high note with some fantastic roles in his final films. His last movie, Sharmaji Namkeen (2022), was released posthumously after Kapoor passed away on April 30, 2020, at the age of 67, following a long battle with leukemia. Due to his untimely death, Paresh Rawal stepped in to complete Kapoor’s portions for the film.

Roshan’s heartfelt memories reflect the profound respect and friendship he shared with Rishi Kapoor, a legend of Indian cinema.