“Awara”, “Mera Naam Joker”, “Diwana”, “Mera Joota Hai Japani”. We are sure, by now you would have definitely understood by these movie names, what we are talking about. No? We got you. These are some of the most iconic movies of the legendary Bollywood actor, director and producer, Raj Kapoor whose legacy has been still kept on by his son and grandchildren, Rishi Kapoor, and Ranbir Kapoor. Today, on his birthday we bring to our audience some unknown facts about Raj Kapoor, as a way to continue his impact in Bollywood.
Best Interesting Facts and Things About Raj Kapoor
1. Raj Kapoor is referred to as the greatest showman, and Charlie Chaplin of Indian cinema.
2. The actor had “Raj Kapoor” as his stage name, while his original name being Ranbir Raj Kapoor. Where, his first name is also the name of his grandson.
3. The actor started his career at the age of 10, with his first appearance being in the movie , Inquilab in 1935.
4. He was the youngest director of his time, establishing his own studio at the age of 24. His studio was named, R.K films, which was established in 1948.
5. It took him 6 years to complete his movie “Mera naam joker”. The interesting part of the movie was that, it was directed and produced by him, along with him being the part of the star cast.
6. Raj Kapoor had the title of being the highest paid actor along with Dilip Kumar in Hindi cinemas, from 1950-1956.
7. One of the personality recognition traits of Raj Kapoor was often marked by his hat, which he often wore in many of his films.
8. One of his highest budget film, “Mera Naam Joker” was made with a budget of ₹1 crore. The movie was an initial flop in box office, but earned a good amount in Russia.
9. He is referred in the 3 best known symbols of Indian culture, along with lord Shiva and yoga, in a Russian song named, Song about Yogis.
10. Raj Kapoor collapsed in one of the most important events of his life, where he was to be honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Award.
11. Two of his films, namely Awaara and Boot Polish had been nominated for Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival.
12. Raj Kapoor acted in a total of 75 films, with some of them being directed and produced by him.
13. The actor was a winner of many awards, including 11 Filmfare Awards.
14. His movies and songs have a high demand in Russia. He was the only Indian film icon in Russia for about 50 years.
15. One of his movie, Henna was directed and released by his son Randhir as Raj Kapoor was to direct the movie before his death on 2nd June 1988.
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Conclusion
An actor, still alive in the heart of people, gave rise to music and film craze in Bollywood. It was his movies and the characters, that set many fashion trends as well, including the trend of Bobby prints, and black & white sarees. The man has been a legendary icon, and we are sure by now you must be aware of many unknown facts about him. This article is a way to pay tribute to the actor on his birthday, 14th December.
Further Reading: Top 9 Bollywood Political Movies That You Must Watch