Raj Kapoor, the Greatest Showman of Hindi cinema, was born this day in 1924, at Kapoor Haveli, Peshawar. On the occasion of this noted actor-filmmaker’s 93rd birth anniversary, we bring you a selection of his best films...A great way to understand the cinema and the man.
Aag: Released in 1948, this early film reflected Kapoor’s desire to affirm his own independence in cinema, coinciding with the Freedom of young India. His character refuses to follow the path laid down for him by his family, and justifies it by insisting on freedom. “I'll never forget Aag because it was the story of youth consumed by the desire for a brighter and more intense life. And all those who flitted like shadows through my own life, giving something, taking something, were in that film,” said Kapoor.
Barsaat: Revolving around two love stories and their twists and turns, this 1949 release was one of Kapoor’s major hits as a director, enabling him to buy R K Studios in 1950. The famous poster and publicity material for the film were illustrated by master artist Dr S. M. Pandit. One of the posters showing the heroine in an embrace with the hero would go on to inspire the R K Studios' famous logo.
Awara: Centring on the intertwining lives of the poor Raj (Kapoor) and the privileged Rita (Nargis), this 1951 film saw Kapoor channelize the innocent "little tramp" character of Charlie Chaplin. The film became an overnight sensation in South Asia, besides finding success in the Soviet Union, East Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The strains of ‘Awaara Hoon…’ were to be heard across India and as far as China, Turkey, Afghanistan, and Romania. The film was also nominated for the Grand Prize at the Cannes Film Festival in 1953, and was included in the 20 new entries to All-Time 100 greatest films by TIME.
Jagte Raho: This offbeat 1956 film revolves around a poor villager who moves to the city, but falls into the trap of corrupt and greedy elements. The music was the main highlight of this film, which won many merit awards.
Mera Naam Joker: Released in 1970, this film detailed the life of a clown who must make his audience laugh at the cost of his own sorrows. Said to have been loosely based on Raj Kapoor's own life, it was a commercial disaster, putting Kapoor into a financial crisis. However, over the years it has acquired cult status, and is today labelled as a 'misunderstood masterpiece'.
