The indelible impact that Raj Kapoor left on Indian Cinema is simply undeniable. Whether this man chose to bring to life a persuasive and real story, centred around the depths of a common person or deal with more thought provoking issues – his films went down in history. In order to pay homage to this legend on his 90th birthday, we have compiled ten of our absolute fave Raj Kapoor films in which he either starred, directed or produced (or all three) in no particular order.
1) Mera Naam Joker
An absolute MUST see. Raj Kapoor portrays a joker in this film, and boy, we really do mean it when we say this film is a roller-coaster of emotions. This was also Rishi Kapoor‘s debut film!
Aadmi mein dil hota hai…dil mein aadmi <3
2) Kal Aaj Aur Kal
This movie marked the appearance of 3 generations of the Kapoor Clan! Exactly why this makes it to our top 10 of course.
3) Sangam
How could anyone forget this epic film. Raj Kapoor‘s first film in colour renowned for its length and message. If you haven’t seen this…what are you even waiting for?
4) Jis Desh Mein Ganga Bethi Hai
An instant Box Office hit starring the man himself, as a loveable orphan who could really churn out some amazing songs!
5) Barsaat
This film was said to have been the key to the launch of RK studios in 1950, after the money it made! It also starred the already oh-so-popular pair Nargis and Raj Kapoor.
6) Shree 420
Who can forget the immensely popular song ‘Mera Joota hai Japani‘?! Not only was this movie a massive hit in India, but also hugely popular in the Soviet Union amongst many Russians. You see why we love this man?
7) Satyam Shivam Sundaram
A rather controversial film at it’s time (courtesy some steamy scenes between Zeenat Aman and Shashi Kapoor) – but none other could have directed this but Raj Kapoor himself!
8) Prem Rog
This film was instrumental in highlighting a few key social issues of the time – caste discrimination and remarriage. A pivotal film to say the least!
9) Aag
This was the first film Raj Kapoor produced, directed and starred in (under the RK banner) with Nargis. And what timeless chemistry the two shared on screen!
10) Ram Teri Ganga Maili
This film was the last that Raj Kapoor directed before he passed away. It was also one of the highest grossing films of the 80’s! Such a colossal hit!
In the words of the man himself “…if you do not cheat the audience, they are very kind to you. Don’t make a fool of them. Don’t take them for granted, They may not be as intelligent or as critical as other audiences, but why they have come there, they know; they want to be entertained.”
And he did exactly that – and continues to do so for generations to come!