Raj Kapoor’s Iconic Films To Be Screened In Theatres To Celebrate Showman's 100th Birth Anniversary

On the occasion of the 100th birth anniversary of the legendary Raj Kapoor, R.K. Films, Film Heritage Foundation, and NFDC-National Film Archive of India proudly present Raj Kapoor 100 Film Festival.

Raj Kapoor film festival to be held in theatres from December 13-15.

Source : Special Arrangement

On the occasion of the 100th birth anniversary of the legendary Raj Kapoor, R.K. Films, Film Heritage Foundation, and NFDC-National Film Archive of India proudly present Raj Kapoor 100 – Celebrating the Centenary of the Greatest Showman. This grand retrospective will honour the iconic producer, director, and actor by screening ten of his most celebrated films across 40 cities and 135 cinemas in India from December 13 to December 15, 2024. Audiences can enjoy this cinematic tribute at state-of-the-art venues like PVR-Inox and Cinepolis cinemas nationwide.

To mark this milestone, movie tickets will be available at just ₹100 across all participating cinemas. This special pricing reflects Raj Kapoor’s commitment to inclusivity and his dedication to bringing cinema to everyone—a theme consistent with his illustrious career and storytelling ethos.

Raj Kapoor's 100th birth anniversary

Raj Kapoor (1924–1988), often referred to as 'The Greatest Showman,' is celebrated as one of India’s most globally recognised filmmakers. A visionary actor, producer, and director, Kapoor was born into the illustrious Kapoor family led by Prithviraj Kapoor. He forged his unique path, debuting as a child actor in Inquilab (1935) and later founding the legendary R.K. Films studio in 1948.

Kapoor’s cinema delved into the heartbeat of post-Partition India, reflecting the struggles of the common man and the rural-urban divide. With classics like Awaara (1951), Shree 420 (1955), Sangam (1964), and Mera Naam Joker (1970), he captured universal emotions with innovation and humanism. His iconic tramp character, inspired by Charlie Chaplin, struck a chord globally, particularly in the Soviet Union, where his work continues to be celebrated.

Among Kapoor’s accolades are the Padma Bhushan (1971), the Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1988), and numerous Filmfare Awards. Films like Awaara and Boot Polish competed at the Cannes Film Festival, while Jagte Raho won the Crystal Globe at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival.

The Festival Line-Up

The retrospective will showcase Raj Kapoor’s most celebrated films, including:

• Aag (1948)
• Barsaat (1949)
• Awaara (1951)
• Shree 420 (1955)
• Jagte Raho (1956)
• Jis Desh Mein Ganga Behti Hai (1960)
• Sangam (1964)
• Mera Naam Joker (1970)
• Bobby (1973)
• Ram Teri Ganga Maili (1985)

Ranbir Kapoor talks about Raj Kapoor

Sharing his thought about his father, eldest son Randhir Kapoor said, “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.”

Bollywood star and Raj Kapoor's grandson Ranbir Kapoor said, “We take immense pride in being members of the Raj Kapoor family. 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."

From December 13 to 15, 2024, cinephiles are invited to relive the timeless charm of Raj Kapoor’s universe and celebrate the extraordinary legacy of Indian cinema’s Greatest Showman.