In Indian cinema, the name ‘Raajkumar’ conjures images of two legendary figures, each dominating their respective film industries. He appeared in about 70 films during his career, which lasted over four decades.
Making his debut in 1952 with ‘Rangeeli,’ it was his role in the 1957 Oscar-nominated classic ‘Mother India’ that propelled him to stardom. Known for his distinctive dialogue delivery and portrayal of strong, often intense characters, Raaj Kumar left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
Despite being highly successful, many stars avoided working with him due to his reputation for arrogance and an unpredictable temper. Even Rajinikanth declined a film offer upon learning it was directed by Raaj Kumar. There’s also a story of Amitabh Bachchan encountering Raaj Kumar’s arrogance at a party organized by Raaj Kapoor, where both actors were present.
At the party, Amitabh Bachchan arrived in a suit and boots, drawing praise from everyone he met. Raaj Kumar noticed this and approached Amitabh, saying, “Jaani, I like your suit.” Amitabh was happy to hear this and quickly told him the shop’s name. Then he asked Raaj Kumar if he wanted to get a suit made there. Raaj Kumar’s response to this surprised Amitabh Bachchan. He said, “I want to get some curtains stitched for my house, and I like the fabric of your suit.”
Raaj Kumar had a unique background in Bollywood. Before becoming an actor, he served as a police officer, which some say made him a bit arrogant. He was known for being straightforward and not sugarcoating his words.
Making his debut in 1952 with ‘Rangeeli,’ it was his role in the 1957 Oscar-nominated classic ‘Mother India’ that propelled him to stardom. Known for his distinctive dialogue delivery and portrayal of strong, often intense characters, Raaj Kumar left an indelible mark on Indian cinema.
Despite being highly successful, many stars avoided working with him due to his reputation for arrogance and an unpredictable temper. Even Rajinikanth declined a film offer upon learning it was directed by Raaj Kumar. There’s also a story of Amitabh Bachchan encountering Raaj Kumar’s arrogance at a party organized by Raaj Kapoor, where both actors were present.
At the party, Amitabh Bachchan arrived in a suit and boots, drawing praise from everyone he met. Raaj Kumar noticed this and approached Amitabh, saying, “Jaani, I like your suit.” Amitabh was happy to hear this and quickly told him the shop’s name. Then he asked Raaj Kumar if he wanted to get a suit made there. Raaj Kumar’s response to this surprised Amitabh Bachchan. He said, “I want to get some curtains stitched for my house, and I like the fabric of your suit.”
Raaj Kumar had a unique background in Bollywood. Before becoming an actor, he served as a police officer, which some say made him a bit arrogant. He was known for being straightforward and not sugarcoating his words.