New Delhi, Dec 11: Prime Minister Narendra Modi remarked that the centenary year of Raj Kapoor signifies a remarkable era in Indian cinema, encouraging his family to perpetuate his legacy by creating a documentary highlighting his international “soft power”.
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Modi engaged with the grandchildren and other relatives of Raj Kapoor, including daughter Rima Jain and daughter-in-law Neetu Kapoor, on Tuesday evening, just days before the filmmaker’s 100th birth anniversary on December 14.
“Raj Kapoor’s centenary is a significant milestone in India’s cinematic legacy. It commenced with ‘Neel Kamal’ in 1947, and we are now progressing towards 2047. Reflecting on this 100-year journey, his contributions to the nation are immense,” PM Modi expressed.
“In international relations, ‘soft power’ is often discussed. Long before the term was coined, Raj Kapoor sahab was a pioneer in establishing India’s soft power globally. This was a tremendous service to our country,” he continued.
The Prime Minister then encouraged the family to visually document Raj Kapoor’s global influence and the impact of his films.
“Could we create a film that captures Raj Kapoor’s influence in the hearts of Central Asians? His films significantly affected their lives, and reviving this connection for the newer generation is essential. I believe it’s entirely possible,” PM Modi remarked.
Recalling the influence of Raj Kapoor’s films, he shared a story involving former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Deputy PM LK Advani.
“During the Jan Sangh days, there were elections in Delhi, and they faced defeat. Advani ji and Atal ji then said, ‘We’ve lost the elections; what shall we do now? Let’s watch a movie.’
“They chose to watch Raj Kapoor’s ‘Phir Subah Hogi’ (1958), which led them to a new beginning,” he recounted.
He added that when he visited China, he noticed the hosts playing music from Raj Kapoor’s movies.
“I asked my team to record it on a mobile device and shared it with Rishi ji, who was thrilled,” Modi shared with the family.
Alia Bhatt, who attended the meeting with her husband Ranbir Kapoor, highlighted the worldwide resonance of Hindi films and inquired whether the Prime Minister finds time to listen to music.
“I certainly do. I enjoy listening to songs whenever I can,” Modi replied.
The Kapoor family, which included Karisma Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, Saif Ali Khan, Aadar Jain, Armaan Jain, and Anissa Malhotra, extended an invitation to the Prime Minister for the upcoming Raj Kapoor Film Festival.
To be held across 101 cinemas in 34 cities from December 13 to 15, this event organized by PVR INOX Limited and the Film Heritage Foundation will be one of the most comprehensive retrospectives ever dedicated to Raj Kapoor’s cinematic work.
Ranbir Kapoor expressed his gratitude to PM Modi for the interaction with the family.
“We thoroughly enjoyed our conversation with the PM and asked numerous personal questions. He was very approachable, easing our nerves before the meeting. We are truly thankful,” he stated.
Kareena Kapoor Khan expressed that it was a dream come true to meet the Prime Minister.
“I’m delighted that we had this opportunity on my grandfather’s centenary. He possesses such positive energy and is indeed a global leader,” she reflected.
Alia Bhatt added that it was a proud moment for the Kapoor family.
“The warmth, kindness, and the way he spoke about Raj Kapoor ji provided us with many ideas for continuing his legacy and educating the world about him. We appreciated it immensely,” she noted.
Karisma Kapoor conveyed her feelings of being overwhelmed after meeting the Prime Minister.
“He expressed immense love and respect for my grandfather and the family. I believe this day will forever be monumental and unforgettable for us. Thank you, Modi ji, for the chance to spend this time with you,” she concluded. (Agencies)
