The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) on Sunday saw charismatic presence of Indian cinema's heartthrob Ranbir Kapoor, who paid a heartfelt tribute to his grandfather Raj Kapoor.
Ranbir lauded his grandfather for directing Bobby at the age of 50, a film that deeply resonated with teenagers and featured Dimple Kapadia as a Goan Catholic fisherman's daughter who falls in love with a Hindu boy.
He said that his grandfather was very good with love stories, his deep-rooted Indian values and his ability to come out with themes that not only resonated with Indian audiences, but also struck a chord with people in the then Soviet Union and Southeast Asia.
The actor was speaking at the in-conversation - ‘Centenary Special: Celebrating the Life and Works of Raj Kapoor – The Greatest Showman’ with filmmaker Rahul Rawail.
Risk-taking and universal themes
Ranbir expressed admiration for Raj Kapoor’s fearless approach to storytelling, highlighting his ability to take risks and push boundaries while creating films that resonated deeply with the common man. “He made films rooted in Indian values while ensuring they remained commercially viable,” he said.
He pointed out the legendary filmmaker's commitment to addressing societal issues, particularly the oppression of women, as depicted in Ram Teri Ganga Maili, where the protagonist symbolises the Ganga River—pure at its source but tainted as it flows downstream due to human apathy.
Ranbir also spoke about Mera Naam Joker, a bold venture that unfortunately led to financial difficulties for Raj Kapoor.
However, he praised his grandfather’s resilience, noting how he reinvented himself with Bobby, a film that successfully targeted teenage audiences. “It was truly amazing how he adapted and bounced back,” Ranbir, who himself strikes a chord with the younger generation, remarked.
Raj Kapoor and the grandkids
Ranbir shared endearing and lesser-known stories about his grandfather and his late father, Rishi Kapoor.
He fondly recalled how Raj Kapoor would gather his grandchildren—Kareena, Karisma, and Ranbir—line them up, have them perform a salaam, and sing Awaara Hoon. As a reward, he would give each child a caramel toffee, which he cleverly hid in his room.
Awaara Hoon
Ranbir charmed the audience during the session by humming the iconic song Awaara Hoon along with a member of the crowd. Reflecting on his childhood, Ranbir said, “Being the first grandson of Kapoor brought a lot of attention.”
He added that the day Raj Kapoor passed away, he realised the immense impact his grandfather made had on people after looking at the streets of Chembur lined with people mourning his loss.
Dotting and caring
Ranbir also shared a touching memory of Raj Kapoor’s caring nature. During a party, when young Ranbir was bitten by ants, Raj Kapoor immediately left his guests to tend to him, washing his legs and comforting him, demonstrating his deep love for family.
A song and a legacy
Ranbir fondly recalled playing Raj Kapoor’s iconic song Kisi Ki Muskurahaton Pe for his daughter Raha, as her introduction to his grandfather's music.
He described the song as simple yet deeply beautiful, making it the perfect choice for his daughter’s first musical experience.
Remembering his father's wise words
Ranbir shared an insightful moment when his father, Rishi Kapoor, visited the set of Saawariya and expressed his concerns about the film's unconventional style. Rishi questioned various elements, such as the large Buddha statue, numerous windows, and the absence of daytime scenes, wondering why he and Sonam Kapoor were just walking through empty streets. At the time, Ranbir didn’t have answers and dismissed his father’s concerns, thinking he was “old school” in his approach to filmmaking.
However, over time, Ranbir realised that his father’s point about alienating the audience with such unique choices had merit.
Point of disagreement
For Ranbir, carving his own niche in the industry was crucial. When asked about Anupam Kher’s statement at IFFI that 'acting is lying', Ranbir disagreed. He explained that for him acting is about being true to the moment, connecting authentically with the character, and allowing the performance to flow naturally as an artist.
Only then can he do justice to a role. Therefore, he does not endorse the notion of acting as 'lying'.
On balancing art and responsibility
On the topic of working with characters or films that glorify negativity, Ranbir acknowledged the importance of choosing roles that foster positive change. He emphasised that as an actor it’s necessary to explore various genres and characters, but with a sense of responsibility.
He noted that actors must be mindful of the impact their roles have on society, making sure they are contributing meaningfully through their craft.
Alia Bhat didn't know
Ranbir Kapoor reflected on the importance of remembering one’s roots, sharing a story about his wife Alia Bhatt.
He recalled how, when they first met, Alia asked him, “Who was Kishore Kumar?” This moment made him realise how quickly artists can be forgotten, as new generations emerge, replacing older icons. It's a cycle where even legends are eventually overshadowed by newer talent.
Sunday in Goa
In the end, Ranbir left his signature mark on the 55th IFFI with a full-house masterclass, not did not disappoint the Goan audience who were left awed with his charm, stories and his ethereal presence.