Raj Kapoor Film Festival: Ranbir Kapoor’s Tribute to His Legendary Grandfather

Panaji: Bollywood star Ranbir Kapoor has announced a nationwide film festival to celebrate the birth centenary of his grandfather, legendary filmmaker Raj Kapoor. The festival will feature restored versions of 10 iconic films by Raj Kapoor and is scheduled to take place from December 13 to December 15 across India.

Honoring a Cinematic Icon

Ranbir Kapoor shared this exciting news during the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Panaji, where he participated in a special session with filmmaker Rahul Rawail. The event was organized to honor Raj Kapoor ahead of his 100th birth anniversary on December 14.

The restoration project is a joint effort by the National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC), National Film Archives of India (NFAI), and the Film Heritage Foundation. Ranbir’s uncle Kunal Kapoor is also actively involved in the initiative.

"We are going to organize the Raj Kapoor Film Festival from December 13-December 15 all over India. We will show restored versions of 10 of his films," Ranbir told an enthusiastic audience at the Kala Academy.

Remembering Roots

Ranbir emphasized the importance of remembering cinematic legends like Raj Kapoor. “The first time I met Alia, she asked me, ‘Who’s Kishore Kumar?’ It’s just a circle of life, people are forgotten. It’s important we remember our roots,” he said, reflecting on the legacy of Indian cinema.

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The actor urged fans and cinema lovers to attend the festival, expressing hope that the event will rekindle appreciation for the timeless classics of Raj Kapoor.

Ranbir also shared his long-held dream of creating a biopic about Raj Kapoor. He revealed ongoing discussions with renowned filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali about the potential project.

“A biopic is not just about showcasing someone’s success. It’s about portraying their life honestly—the highs, the lows, the struggles, and their relationships,” Ranbir said.

Known as the “Showman of Indian Cinema,” Raj Kapoor is celebrated for his pioneering contributions to Indian films. His works, including Awaara, Shree 420, and Mera Naam Joker, remain timeless classics that continue to influence filmmakers and audiences alike.

Restoring and showcasing his films is an effort to preserve this legacy and introduce younger generations to the magic of Raj Kapoor’s storytelling.The Raj Kapoor Film Festival is not just a celebration of a cinematic legend but also a tribute to Indian cinema's golden era. Through this initiative, Ranbir Kapoor is ensuring that the legacy of his grandfather remains alive, inspiring generations to come.