• Thursday, December 05, 2024

Entertainment

Raj Kapoor films to be screened across India to mark his 100th birth anniversary

The films will be shown at 135 cinemas across 40 cities, including PVR-Inox and Cinepolis, with tickets priced at ₹100 to ensure accessibility for all

A still from Raj Kapoor film.

By: India Weekly

THE LEGACY of Raj Kapoor, a pioneer of Indian cinema, will be honoured with a nationwide retrospective from December 13 to December 15.

The event, marking the 100th birth anniversary of the actor, director, and producer, will showcase ten of his iconic films, including “Aag”, “Awaara”, “Shree 420”, “Sangam”, and “Bobby”.

The retrospective, titled ‘Raj Kapoor 100 – Celebrating the Centenary of the Greatest Showman,’ is presented by R.K. Films, Film Heritage Foundation, and NFDC-National Film Archive of India.

Ranbir Kapoor, Raj Kapoor’s grandson, announced the event last month at the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) during a session dedicated to the celebrated filmmaker.

Screenings will start on December 14, a day before Raj Kapoor’s birth anniversary, and will end on December 15.

The films will be shown at 135 cinemas across 40 cities, including PVR-Inox and Cinepolis, with tickets priced at ₹100 to ensure accessibility for all.

Randhir Kapoor, the eldest son of Raj Kapoor, emphasised the significance of experiencing his father’s work on the big screen.

“Raj Kapoor was not just a filmmaker; he was a visionary who shaped the emotional landscape of Indian cinema. His stories are more than just films; they are powerful, emotional journeys that connect generations of viewers. This festival is our humble tribute to the greatness of his vision,” he said in a statement.

Ranbir Kapoor expressed pride in continuing the family’s legacy. “Our generation stands on the shoulders of a giant whose films captured the spirit of their time and gave a voice to the common man over decades. His timeless stories continue to inspire, and this festival is our way of honoring that magic and inviting everyone to experience his legacy on the big screen. See you at the movies!” he added.

The retrospective will also feature “Barsaat”, “Jagte Raho”, “Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai”, “Mera Naam Joker”, and “Ram Teri Ganga Maili”.

Raj Kapoor’s career began in childhood with Inquilab (1935). In 1948, he founded R.K. Films, producing hits that solidified his status as one of the most influential figures in Indian cinema.

Kapoor’s films were celebrated for resonating with audiences globally, including in Russia, Uzbekistan, and Georgia, making him one of the first to take Indian cinema to international audiences.

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