Bollywood filmmaker Anees Bazmee began his journey in cinema as an assistant director to the iconic Raj Kapoor. As the Kapoor family organises centenary celebrations of the legendary filmmaker, Bazmee reflected on his experiences and lessons under Kapoor’s guidance and shared insights on how they continue to influence his work today.
In a conversation with India Today, Bazmee recounted how a senior writer introduced him to Raj Kapoor during the making of ‘Prem Rog‘. Kapoor allowed Bazmee to join his team, marking the start of his cinematic journey. Reflecting on his time with Kapoor, Bazmee highlighted the legendary filmmaker’s unparalleled passion for cinema, describing how Kapoor’s dedication to the craft and visionary approach enabled him to create iconic films.
“His passion—it was something else. He slept, ate, and walked cinema. He actually breathed and lived it. He could only make such great films because of his immense love for the craft,” said the ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 3’ director. Kapoor’s ability to bring his grand vision to life through the camera left a lasting impression on Bazmee.
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The ‘Welcome’ director humbly admitted that, despite learning from Kapoor, he could never replicate the genius of his mentor. He credited his achievements to the foundational lessons gained under Kapoor’s guidance. Bazmee shared that he often wished Kapoor were alive to witness his journey as a filmmaker, particularly during the creation of his debut film. He expressed regret that his mentor could not see the path he had followed under his influence.
Anees recalled Raj Kapoor’s inclusive leadership, sharing how the filmmaker ensured his assistants were treated equally, from travelling on planes to staying in luxurious hotels and enjoying the same meals. Bazmee praised Kapoor as a visionary and a true professional, noting how he brought out stellar performances from lead actors and gave significant roles to the supporting cast.”He was a visionary. Even the extras in his films came across as an important part. That was the RK magic,” Bazmee said.
He also described the atmosphere on Kapoor’s film sets, noting how Kapoor was warm and loving when things went as planned but strict when they didn’t, always striving for excellence. Bazmee considered him a towering figure and cherished the learning experience of simply being in his presence.
Anees further said, “All his sets were so grand, almost as if they belonged to another world. Raj saab ka kamaal hi kuch aur tha (Raj saab’s brilliance was something else).”
To commemorate Raj Kapoor’s 100th birth anniversary, an RK Film Festival is set to take place across 40 cities from December 13 to 15. Bazmee expressed his excitement for the event, choosing ‘Prem Rog’ as the film he would most love to revisit on the big screen. He highlighted the festival as an excellent opportunity to introduce Kapoor’s iconic works to younger audiences.
Bazmee also praised the Kapoor family for carrying forward Raj Kapoor’s legacy, applauding the contributions of Ranbir Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor, Karisma Kapoor, and the late Rishi Kapoor.
