Kapoor Family Meets PM Modi, Celebrates Raj Kapoor’s Legacy Ahead of Centenary

Mumbai – The Kapoor family recently met Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi to commemorate the 100th birth anniversary of Bollywood icon Raj Kapoor. The family shared heartwarming anecdotes, expressed gratitude for the recognition of Raj Kapoor’s contributions to Indian cinema, and discussed how his legacy has shaped India’s cultural identity.

Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor revealed during the meeting that the family had prepared in advance, even discussing on their WhatsApp group how to address the Prime Minister. "Last week, on our WhatsApp family group, we decided to address you as ‘Prime Minister, Prime Minister Sir.’ Reema Aunty would call me daily asking, ‘Can I say this? Should I say that?’" Ranbir shared with a smile.

PM Modi, lightening the mood, assured the family they could address him as they preferred, saying, "Consider me a member of your family." Reema Jain, Raj Kapoor's daughter, addressed the Prime Minister as "Respected Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi," prompting him to playfully interject, “Cut,” bringing smiles to everyone in the room.

Reema thanked the Prime Minister for taking time to honor Raj Kapoor on his centenary. “In such a precious time, you have invited everyone here on Raj Kapoor's 100th birthday. We are deeply grateful. I am reminded of a line from one of Papa's movies: ‘I will not live, you will not live, but there will be memories.’ You have given immense respect to the Kapoor family and today’s India.”

PM Modi Reflects on Raj Kapoor’s Global Impact

During the meeting, PM Modi reflected on Raj Kapoor’s significant contributions, calling him a visionary who positioned India as a global cultural force long before the term "soft power" was even coined.

"In 1947, we had Neel Kamal, and now, in 2047, as we approach a 100-year journey, it symbolizes the immense contribution of such a vast nation. Raj Kapoor’s work introduced the strength of India’s soft power to the world through storytelling and cinema," PM Modi said.

Raj Kapoor, often regarded as one of the greatest forces in Indian cinema, was born on December 14, 1924, in Peshawar (now in Pakistan). The eldest son of legendary actor Prithviraj Kapoor, he not only acted in but also produced several landmark films that earned him accolades, including three National Film Awards.

The centenary of Raj Kapoor marks a celebration of the golden age of Indian cinema and the enduring legacy of one of its most iconic figures.