Rishi Kapoor, fondly known as ‘Chintu Ji,’ is remembered as one of Bollywood’s most beloved actors. Known for his romantic roles and boyish charm, Rishi Kapoor captivated audiences across generations. Yet, beyond the glamour, he faced insecurities, changes in career direction, and a journey of self-discovery that shaped him into an unforgettable Bollywood icon. Here, we take a closer look at the life, career, and impact of Rishi Kapoor, tracing his transition from a youthful heartthrob to a legend of Indian cinema.
From ‘Bobby’ to Bollywood Stardom: The Rise of Rishi Kapoor
Rishi Kapoor’s first major break came in 1973 with his hit film Bobby, directed by his father, Raj Kapoor. Bobby wasn’t just a film for Rishi; it marked the beginning of a career that spanned nearly five decades. In Bobby, Rishi’s portrayal of a young lover struck a chord with audiences, and the film’s success made him an instant star. Despite this, Rishi would later confess that this early success set a high standard that he spent years trying to replicate.
In a 2011 interview, he reflected on his journey and the challenges of maintaining that momentum. He shared, “I didn’t wait for stardom; it came to me with Bobby. But after that, I had to struggle to match its success. I worked as a star from 1973 to 1998, and it wasn’t always easy.” Despite being a top name in Bollywood, Rishi Kapoor spoke of his journey as a series of ups and downs that required resilience and adaptability.
A Reluctant Romantic Hero
Rishi Kapoor’s image as Bollywood’s romantic hero stuck with him for years. He charmed audiences with his roles in films like Chandni, Kabhie Kabhie, and Karz. But Rishi wasn’t always comfortable with his on-screen persona. He later admitted that he often felt embarrassed watching his younger self on screen. “I don’t enjoy watching my earlier films. I’m not a narcissist; I find it strange to see myself that way,” he once said.
This confession revealed a lesser-known side of the actor, showing his humility and self-awareness. For him, acting was less about seeing himself on screen and more about connecting with his audience.
A Pause, Then a Change: Moving Behind the Camera
After two decades as a leading man, Rishi Kapoor began to feel the toll of stardom. By the late 90s, he felt his age and the weight of competition from younger actors. Reflecting on this phase, he shared, “I was bored, I gained weight, and I didn’t feel I could compete with the younger stars.”
Taking a step back from acting, Rishi decided to explore a new path by directing films. In 1999, he directed Aa Ab Laut Chalen, starring Aishwarya Rai and Akshaye Khanna. To focus on this new venture, he even returned the signing amounts to several producers and took a break from acting. Although the movie did not reach the heights of his earlier successes, Rishi valued the experience and the fresh perspective it gave him on the film industry.
The Kapoor Legacy: From ‘Mera Naam Joker’ to ‘Sharmaji Namkeen’
Rishi Kapoor’s roots in Bollywood run deep. He was born into the Kapoor family, a dynasty known for its significant impact on Indian cinema. Rishi began his acting career at the age of 16 with a role in Mera Naam Joker, a film directed by his father, Raj Kapoor. Rishi’s uncle, Shashi Kapoor, noticed his passion early on, recalling how young Rishi would draw mustaches on his face with pencils and roam around the famous RK Studios.
Despite his deep family connections to the industry, Rishi worked hard to make a name for himself, earning respect on his own terms. Over the years, he starred in more than 121 films, delivering memorable performances that continue to resonate with audiences.
In his later years, Rishi took on diverse roles that showcased his range as an actor. His final film, Sharmaji Namkeen, captures the essence of a man embracing life’s changes in his later years. Tragically, Rishi passed away in April 2020, before the film was completed. To honor his legacy, Paresh Rawal stepped in to complete the role, a tribute to Rishi’s lasting impact on Bollywood.
A Lifelong Journey in Cinema
Rishi Kapoor’s life was a testament to his love for cinema. Reflecting on his career, he spoke with pride about his 39 years in the industry and the ups and downs he experienced. He once shared an anecdote about failing an English exam and his father’s advice that led him to work as an assistant director on Kal Aaj Aur Kal. This experience would eventually lead him back to acting, where he found success as a ‘hero by default.’
Rishi’s journey was one of resilience, evolution, and enduring influence. From his youthful days in Bobby to his last role in Sharmaji Namkeen, he proved himself as a versatile and beloved actor, earning a special place in Bollywood history. Today, his legacy continues through his son, Ranbir Kapoor, who carries the Kapoor family’s cinematic torch into a new era.
