Rekha Gets Emotional, Dharmendra Pays Tribute To Raj Kapoor On His 100th Birth Anniversary

December 14, 2024: On the 100th birth anniversary of the legendary Raj Kapoor, Bollywood stars, family members, and industry stalwarts came together to pay heartfelt tributes to the “Greatest Showman of Indian Cinema.” The celebrations were filled with emotional reminiscences, special events, and a grand film festival dedicated to his iconic legacy.

Veteran actor Dharmendra shared a black-and-white photograph of himself with Raj Kapoor, capturing a beautiful moment where the two were seen embracing in a tight hug. Dharmendra, who worked with Raj Kapoor in the classic film Mera Naam Joker (1970), posted a heartfelt message on Instagram that read, “Dear Raj Saheb, Happy Birthday to you. We miss you! You will always be remembered with great love and respect.” His post conveyed deep admiration for the man who had a profound impact on his career and the film industry.

Anil Kapoor, who grew up in the Kapoor family and had immense admiration for Raj Kapoor, also paid a loving tribute to the film icon. He shared his personal memories of Raj Kapoor and expressed how his work inspired him. Anil wrote on social media, “14th December, Raj Uncle’s birthday, has always been special… His aura, artistry, and vision were unmatched then and remain unmatched now. On his 100th birthday, I fondly remember his timeless films, RK Studios moments… Happy 100th birthday to the ‘Greatest Showman,’ Raj Kapoor. Your magic will forever awe me.” Anil also shared some cherished photographs of Raj Kapoor, highlighting the personal bond and deep respect he had for the legendary filmmaker.

Rekha, another Bollywood legend who worked with Raj Kapoor in the romantic drama Satyam Shivam Sundaram (1978), attended the opening ceremony of the Raj Kapoor Film Festival in Mumbai on December 13. As Rekha stepped onto the red carpet, she was visibly nostalgic. She gazed adoringly at the posters of Raj Kapoor’s films and bowed down to them in tribute. The actress’ emotional appearance reflected the deep connection she had with Raj Kapoor and his extraordinary cinematic legacy.

The Kapoor family, including Raj Kapoor’s children, Randhir Kapoor and Rima Jain, along with daughters-in-law Babita and Neetu Kapoor, and grandchildren like Ranbir Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor, Karisma Kapoor, and Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, gathered to celebrate Raj Kapoor’s centenary. Their collective presence at the event underscored the family’s pride in preserving and celebrating the legacy of their patriarch.

The festival, named “Raj Kapoor 100 – Celebrating the Centenary of the Greatest Showman”, is a grand celebration of his life and works. It features curated screenings of ten iconic Raj Kapoor films across 40 cities and 135 cinemas. Some of his most celebrated films being showcased are 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).