Raj Kapoor, a name that has left an indelible mark on Indian cinema, would have reached the milestone of 100 years on December 14. His journey began in 1948, just a year after India's independence, and as the nation evolved through the decades, so did his movies. They became a mirror, reflecting the dreams and conflicts of society, transitioning from the black and white era to the glossy technicolour of later years.

The Original Showman's Enduring Legacy in Indian Cinema

Early Beginnings and Passion for Cinema

At a young age of 17, Raj Kapoor sought his father's permission to leave his studies and pursue a career in movies. Prithviraj Kapoor agreed, but on the condition that he work as an assistant with a monthly stipend of ₹10. After a few acting roles, including in "Neel Kamal" with Madhubala in 1947, Kapoor decided to take the plunge as a director and producer with "Aag" at the age of 24. This marked the start of his remarkable journey in the world of filmmaking." Aag" was not just a film but a profound exploration of inner versus outer beauty, love, and loyalty. These themes would resurface in his later works like "Barsaat" and "Satyam Shivam Sundaram", showcasing his depth as a filmmaker.

The Versatile Film Man

Raj Kapoor ruled the silver screen alongside Dev Anand and Dilip Kumar. He was not just an actor but a producer and director who crafted movies that were both spectacles and more. His music, composed by Shankar-Jaikishen and sung by Mukesh, struck a chord with audiences for decades. His filmography includes classics like "Awara" and "Shree 420", as well as blockbusters like "Bobby" and "Sangam".He directed only 10 movies, each with its own unique charm. Some, like "Awara" and "Shree 420", became unforgettable classics. Others, such as "Bobby" and "Sangam", were massive hits. Even his debatable hits like "Satyam Shivam Sundaram", "Prem Rog", and "Ram Teri Ganga Maili" had their own significance.

Heroines and Enduring Collaborations

His heroines played a central role in his movies. From Vyajanthimala and Padmini to his most important collaboration with Nargis, their partnerships yielded blockbusters like "Barsaat", "Awara", "Andaz", and "Chori Chori". A scene in "Barsaat" inspired the famous RK Studio logo, with Raj Kapoor holding a violin and Nargis by his side.However, their association came to an end with Nargis' brief appearance in "Jagte Raho". But their impact on his films remained significant.

Shifting Cinema and Controversies

The year 1964 marked a shift in his cinema. "Sangam" was the first big Hindi film to be shot in technicolour and abroad. It showed a change in his style, with more populist overtones replacing the idealism and intense romanticism of his earlier works.His later films, like "Bobby", "Satyam Shivam Sundaram", and "Ram Teri Ganga Maili", attracted controversy for their often voyeuristic gaze. But Raj Kapoor dismissed these criticisms, stating that it was time for society to mature.

Final Years and Legacy

In 1988, while in Delhi to receive the Dadasaheb Phalke award, Raj Kapoor suffered a severe asthma attack and collapsed in the auditorium. He passed away a month later at the age of 63. His films continue to inspire and entertain generations, and his legacy lives on in the hearts of movie lovers.Raj Kapoor was a filmmaker unencumbered by logistics. He created massive sets for dream sequences in "Awara", brought tulips and champagne for key scenes in "Bobby", and designed the circus ring in "Mera Naam Joker", his most autobiographical film.His movies were not just entertainment but a reflection of India's history and culture. He truly mirrored India through the ages with his movies of spectacle and ideas.