PM Narendra Modi, on Wednesday, engaged in a candid conversation with the Kapoor family as part of the upcoming centenary celebrations of legendary filmmaker and actor Raj Kapoor. During the meeting, PM Modi highlighted the immense contributions of Raj Kapoor to the Indian film industry and shared glimpses of their discussion on social media platform X.
Kapoor Family Meets PM Modi
The meeting, held in New Delhi on Tuesday, saw the Kapoor family, including Neetu Kapoor, Karisma Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor, Saif Ali Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, Alia Bhatt, and others, gather to discuss the Raj Kapoor 100 Film Festival. The event is scheduled to commemorate the late actor-director’s centenary. The prime minister posed for a group photo with the family, symbolizing the importance of this landmark occasion for Indian cinema. The conversation also highlighted Raj Kapoor’s significant contributions to shaping Bollywood’s global presence. Members of the Kapoor family expressed their gratitude to PM Modi for his support and encouragement for preserving the cinematic legacy of Raj Kapoor.
Celebrating the Golden Era of Indian Cinema
PM Modi referred to the centenary celebrations as a reflection of the “golden journey” of Indian cinema. He noted the significant impact of Raj Kapoor’s 1947 film Neel Kamal and acknowledged its “momentous contribution” to the industry. The government release emphasized Raj Kapoor’s role in elevating Indian cinema on the global stage, particularly as a pioneer of India’s soft power.
The prime minister described Raj Kapoor as India’s “cultural ambassador,” a sentiment echoed by Reema Kapoor, daughter of the late actor. Reema Kapoor thanked PM Modi for dedicating his “valuable time” to the event and recited lines from one of Raj Kapoor’s iconic songs, further underscoring his cultural impact.
Raj Kapoor’s Global Influence
PM Modi urged the Kapoor family to consider producing a film on Raj Kapoor, especially targeting audiences in Central Asia, where the actor remains a beloved icon. The prime minister emphasized the untapped potential of Indian cinema in the region and encouraged efforts to introduce Raj Kapoor’s legacy to newer generations.
To highlight the power of cinema, PM Modi shared an anecdote from the past. He recounted how the Jan Sangh leaders, after losing an election in Delhi, found inspiration in Raj Kapoor’s movie Phir Subah Hogi (“There Will Be Dawn Again”), symbolizing hope and resilience.
Restoring Raj Kapoor’s Masterpieces
Ranbir Kapoor, during the meeting, expressed gratitude to the Centre, the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), and the National Film Archive of India (NFAI) for their assistance in organizing a retrospective of Raj Kapoor’s works. The retrospective will take place on December 13, 14, and 15, 2024.
Ranbir Kapoor also informed the prime minister about the restoration of audio and visuals in 10 of Raj Kapoor’s classic films. These restored films will be showcased across 160 theatres in 40 cities nationwide, with the premiere event set to take place on December 13 in Mumbai. The premiere will be attended by prominent members of the film industry, celebrating the timeless appeal of Raj Kapoor’s cinematic genius.
Honoring Legend Restoring Raj Kapoor
Raj Kapoor’s centenary celebrations are a testament to his enduring influence on Indian cinema and global culture. With initiatives like the Raj Kapoor 100 Film Festival and the restoration of his iconic films, the Kapoor family, alongside the Indian government, aims to honor the legacy of a true cinematic visionary. Additionally, these efforts reflect a commitment to preserving the golden era of Bollywood, ensuring that Raj Kapoor’s artistic excellence and the values he portrayed continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. By showcasing his timeless works to newer generations, the centenary celebrations aim to bridge the gap between the classic and contemporary eras of Indian cinema, inspiring filmmakers and movie enthusiasts alike.
