The Hindi film industry saw a transformative era characterised by action-packed and dance-centric films in the 1970s. This era also saw the entry of many actors and actresses who emerged as iconic stars in Bollywood later. Bollywood also saw the rise of Rishi Kapoor in the early 1970s, who left an impression with his lover-boy image.
The iconic actor made his debut in a lead role at the age of 20 with Bobby, which was released in 1973. Directed by his father and legendary showman Raj Kapoor, the movie marked the beginning of a stellar career for Rishi Kapoor. Starring opposite Dimple Kapadia, Rishi Kapoor became a Bollywood sensation overnight.
The movie went on to become one of the biggest hits of the time while revitalising Raj Kapoor’s fading career. According to reports, Bobby garnered Rs 10.90 crore at the Indian box office and achieved notable success in Russia (then known as the Soviet Union). The film collected Rs 19 crore globally while it was made at a budget of only Rs 1.20 crore.
Rishi Kapoor, who succumbed to Leukemia at the age of 67 in 2020 after a two-year battle, left an indelible mark in Bollywood. Despite his charismatic chemistry with various actresses on screen, it was his on-screen pairing with his wife Neetu Kapoor that resonated most with audiences. The couple featured together in 12 films, including hits like Kabhi Kabhie, Doosra Aadmi, Amar Akbar Anthony, Anjane Mein, Dhan Daulat, Besharam, Do Dooni Chaar and Love Aaj Kal. Their love story off-screen also garnered significant attention in the Hindi film industry. Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Singh tied the knot in 1980 and welcomed two children, Ranbir Kapoor and Riddhima Kapoor.
Known for his candid revelations, Rishi Kapoor often made controversial statements about his life and expressed bold opinions on socio-political issues. In his autobiography, the actor admitted to buying the Filmfare Award for Best Actor for Bobby by paying Rs 30,000. During interviews, he disclosed that he sustained his career for many years due to the love of the people, while claiming that he fooled them as he never knew how to dance or act.
Rishi Kapoor’s last project was Sharmaji Namkeen, written and directed by Hitesh Bhatia.
His impactful contributions to Bollywood, spanning decades, solidified his legacy as an iconic actor and an intriguing personality both on and off the screen.
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