Exclusive! Why Is Raj Kapoor Timeless In Indian Cinema?

Raj Kapoor Birth Anniversary: Raj Kapoor, affectionately known as the "Showman of Indian Cinema," stands as a beacon of cinematic brilliance and innovation. His charismatic screen presence and unparalleled versatility as an actor not only captivated audiences but also played a pivotal role in shaping and popularising Hindi cinema. In the post-independence era, he emerged as a key figure, contributing significantly to the evolution of Indian cinema. In fact, as a filmmaker, Raj Kapoor was a pioneer in Indian cinema. He introduced innovative storytelling techniques and experimented with themes that were ahead of his time. Films like Awaara and Shree 420 addressed social issues, and his directorial vision contributed to the evolution of Indian cinema. Is that why Raj Kapoor is timeless in Indian Cinema?

Raj Kapoor took Indian Cinema to global level

Filmmaker Ram Kamal Mukherjee, who received the National Award for his short film Ek Duaa, in an exclusive interaction with Zoom examined the prowess of Kapoor. “Raj Kapoor showed us now that monochromatic cinema can bring in the imagination of a colourful life,” he reasoned, adding, “He created magical moments with his aesthetics on screen as an actor, writer, director, producer, and visionary.”

Listing the cinematic forays of RK, Mukherjee said that from Awara to Heena (he couldn't direct the film), Raj saab worked relentlessly to take Indian cinema to a global platform.

“Even today in Russia, people sing songs from his films, and his iconic rain song with Nargis from Shree 420, somewhere, represents the simplicity of an Indian couple, sharing the same umbrella in a stormy night. Even today, his subjects are relevant, and probably he was one of the makers to address many socially tabooed topics with a commercial lense - just to penetrate the heartland of India,” he noted on a nostalgic note.

Similarly, according to Producer and Film Business Expert Girish Johar, Raj Kapoor remains a cherished gem, a luminary whose brilliance transcends the boundaries of time in the golden tapestry of Indian cinema. Johar eloquently captured the essence of Kapoor's multifaceted genius, painting a nostalgic portrait of a man whose contributions to the cinematic arts were nothing short of extraordinary.

“Raj Kapoor ji was one of those finest icons of Indian Cinema who was not only multifaceted, but was multitalented as well,” he said, adding, “His filmmaking capabilities, acting prowess, music sense and the story he wanted to tell, were loved beyond time.”

“He is definitely one of the ratans of Indian cinema who helped pave the way Indian cinema is regarded at the world stage. His global recognition was and is fantastic and he is a true gem of Indian cinema,” Johar opined.

Similarly, a spokesperson for deRivaz & Ives, who are celebrating the greatest showman with a vintage Indian film photography and memorabilia auction from December 14 to December 16 to commemorate the showman’s birth celebration added, "Raj Kapoor is timeless. His birth anniversary deserves a celebration for the impact his craft has left on Indian cinema. Be it the direction, the performances, the themes, the women, the music, his cinema was largely personal and bore his unique stamp."

In the vast expanse of cinematic history, Raj Kapoor remains a true gem, a luminary whose brilliance continues to shine brightly.