IFFI celebrates Raj Kapoor, grandson Ranbir Kapoor talks of his global reach

The session was held in Goa Sunday where it was revealed that Raj Kapoor's films are set for re-release this December.

Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor with Sanjay Jaju, Secretary, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting during the conversation 'Celebrating the Life and Works of Raj Kapoor - 'The Greatest Showman' in the ongoing 55th International Film Festival, in Goa on Sunday | ANI Photo

New Delhi: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) paid a special tribute to actor and director Raj Kapoor Sunday as part of his centenary celebrations. The session, held in Goa, featured Ranbir Kapoor, Raj Kapoor’s grandson, and acclaimed filmmaker Rahul Rawail, a PIB release stated.

Ranbir Kapoor emphasized the enduring legacy of his grandfather’s work, stating that Raj Kapoor’s films transcended entertainment and focused on impactful stories that resonated with audiences globally.  He cited films like “Awara,” “Mera Naam Joker,” and “Shree 420” as examples of Raj Kapoor’s universal appeal, noting their success from Russia to India.

Kapoor also highlighted the social relevance of Raj Kapoor’s films, pointing to “Awara”s exploration of casteism and “Shree 420″s examination of greed and ambition. He praised later films like “Prem Rog” and “Ram Teri Ganga Maili” for their progressive narratives addressing women’s issues and societal challenges, the release stated.

The session also saw discussions on the ongoing restoration efforts of Raj Kapoor’s films, a collaboration between Ranbir Kapoor, the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), the National Film Archives of India (NFAI), and the Film Heritage Foundation.  Kapoor announced that ten films have already been restored and are slated for release across India in December 2024.

Beyond film restoration, the session touched upon filmmaking, acting, and the role of cinema in addressing societal issues. Ranbir Kapoor shared his belief that artists should leverage their platforms to raise awareness about global causes, citing his own personal experience of fatherhood and its impact on his environmental awareness. He emphasized the importance of individuality in acting and encouraged aspiring actors to find their own unique style and draw inspiration from great artists worldwide.