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Bollywood actress Kareena Kapoor Khan has thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a special afternoon and said his warmth, attention and support in celebrating the legacy of India’s film icon Raj Kapoor — the actress’ grandfather — means the world to her.
Kareena took to Instagram, where she shared a string of pictures of the “Kapoor” family posing with the PM. In one image, Modi even shared a signed note for Kareena’s sons, Taimur and Jeh. A few images also had the Indian leader speaking to her husband, actor Saif Ali Khan; cousin, actor Ranbir Kapoor; aunt, actress Neetu Kapoor; sister-in-law, actress Alia Bhatt; and herself.
“We are deeply humbled and honored to have been invited by the Honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, to commemorate the extraordinary life and legacy of our grandfather, the legendary Raj Kapoor,” part of her caption read.
“Thank you Shri Modi ji for such a special afternoon. Your warmth, attention, and support in celebrating this milestone meant the world to us.
“As we celebrate 100 glorious years of Dadaji’s artistry, vision, and contribution to Indian cinema, we honour the timeless impact of his legacy, which continues to inspire us and generations to come.
“We are proud to showcase his iconic films and remember the impact he had on Indian cinema with the ‘Raj Kapoor 100 Film Festival’. Dec 13-15, 2024 | 10 films | 40 cities | 135 cinemas. #100YearsOfRajKapoor,” she said.
The festival will feature Raj Kapoor’s most celebrated works, spanning almost four decades, 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) and Ram Teri Ganga Maili (1985).
It will be showcased across 40 cities and 135 cinemas in India from December 13 to December 15 at the PVR-Inox and Cinepolis cinemas. The movie tickets will be priced at just Rs 100 across all participating cinemas.
Raj Kapoor is regarded as one of the most charismatic filmmakers from India, who left an indelible mark on world cinema. Fondly referred to as “The Greatest Showman”, he was born to legendary actor Prithviraj Kapoor.
His films explored the pulse of post-Partition India, the dreams of the common man, and the rural-urban divide. With enduring classics like Awaara (1951), Shree 420 (1955), Sangam (1964), and Mera Naam Joker (1970), Raj Kapoor’s cinema became synonymous with emotion, innovation, and humanism.
Raj Kapoor was honoured with the Padma Bhushan (1971) and the Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1988).
(Photo courtesy: IANS)