Reliving the Legend: Raj Kapoor’s Films Return to the Big Screen to Celebrate 100 Years of the Showman

On the historic occasion of Raj Kapoor's 100th birth anniversary, Indian cinema honors the legendary filmmaker, actor, and producer with Raj Kapoor 100 – Celebrating the Centenary of the Greatest Showman. This grand retrospective, organized by R.K. Films, the Film Heritage Foundation, and NFDC-National Film Archive of India, will showcase ten iconic Raj Kapoor films across 40 cities and 135 cinemas in India. Scheduled from December 13 to December 15, 2024, the screenings will take place at PVR-Inox and Cinepolis theaters, providing audiences a chance to experience the magic of Kapoor’s work in state-of-the-art venues.

In a fitting tribute, ticket prices are set at just Rs. 100, reflecting Raj Kapoor's ethos of accessibility and inclusivity, which he championed both on and off-screen.

Born in 1924 to acting legend Prithviraj Kapoor, Raj Kapoor (1924–1988) carved his own path in Indian cinema. Starting as a child actor in Inquilab (1935), he went on to establish the iconic R.K. Films studio in 1948. Over the decades, Kapoor’s films became synonymous with storytelling that captured the dreams, struggles, and aspirations of a post-Partition India. His characters, like the unforgettable tramp inspired by Charlie Chaplin, resonated globally, earning him enduring fame, especially in countries like the Soviet Union.

With classics such as Awaara (1951), Shree 420 (1955), Sangam (1964), and Mera Naam Joker (1970), Kapoor wove tales that explored the rural-urban divide, humanism, and the resilience of the common man. His innovative storytelling earned him accolades like the Padma Bhushan (1971), the Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1988), and numerous Filmfare Awards. His films were celebrated internationally, with Awaara and Boot Polish competing at Cannes and Jagte Raho winning the Crystal Globe at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival. 

“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.”

– Randhir Kapoor, Actor and Filmmaker 

“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. See you at the movies!”

– Ranbir Kapoor, Actor

The festival lineup includes some of Kapoor’s most celebrated works, spanning four decades:

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)

From December 13 to 15, 2024, cinephiles will have the chance to immerse themselves in the timeless artistry of Raj Kapoor. This celebration is more than just a tribute—it is a reaffirmation of his enduring legacy as India’s Greatest Showman.