Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India]: Veteran filmmaker Rakesh Roshan recently opened up about his cherished memories with late Bollywood legend Rishi Kapoor, recalling their long-standing friendship and Kapoor’s passion for his craft.
Rakesh Roshan and Rishi Kapoor first met on the sets of the 1975 musical thriller ‘Khel Khel Mein’, which also starred Rishi’s wife, Neetu Kapoor. Over the years, the two worked together on several films, including ‘Jhoota Kahin Ka’ (1979) and ‘Aap Ke Deewane’ (1980), solidifying their bond.
Speaking with media, Roshan recalled Kapoor’s incredible dedication to acting, especially in the later stages of his career.
“He did amazing work before he left us. All his last films were amazing. He took on different kinds of roles, and he was so happy. You will not believe… he used to call me and say, ‘Aaj maine yeh picture sign ki hai… Usme main ganja bhi ho raha hoon, buddha ho raha hoon, 80 saal ka. Roz mujhe makeup karna padta hai 4 ghante, 5 ghante,'” Roshan shared.
However, Roshan also revealed that there was a period when Kapoor felt creatively stuck.
“In the middle, yes, he got a little bored. He would say, ‘Yaar, wahi same cheez, wahi role, wahi kar raha hoon.’ He was a little dissatisfied with his career,” Roshan added.
Rishi Kapoor’s final film, ‘Sharmaji Namkeen’ (2022), was released posthumously. Since Kapoor passed away before completing the film, actor Paresh Rawal stepped in to finish his portions.
The celebrated actor passed away on April 30, 2020, at the age of 67, following a battle with leukemia.