Ranbir Kapoor Reveals Kapoor Familys Unique Tradition of Praise
Ranbir Kapoor shares the Kapoor familys tradition of withholding praise to inspire continuous improvement among sons.
Mumbai, November 4 (Daily Kiran) : Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor recently discussed a fascinating tradition within the Kapoor family that has persisted through generations. He explained that fathers in the family have traditionally refrained from openly praising their sons’ work. This practice aims to motivate the sons to strive for constant improvement and dedication to their craft.
Ranbir recounted an interesting story involving his grandfather, Raj Kapoor, during a conversation with megastar Amitabh Bachchan on the TV show “Kaun Banega Crorepati.”
He said, “I read this story in Raj Kapoor’s book. Once, Raj asked his father, Prithviraj Kapoor, why he never praised him, even when he had become a big star and was excelling in films. Not even a pat on the back.”
In response, Prithviraj shared a tale about a young boy who performed acrobatics on a tightrope by the roadside. Many gathered daily to watch, clapping and showering him with money and compliments. After each performance, the boy would ask his father how he did, but the father always replied, “You could do better.”
Ranbir elaborated, “After years of this, the boy finally asked his father why he was always criticized when everyone else praised him. The father’s reply was profoundly insightful.”
The father told the boy, “Son, the day I start praising you, your focus will shift away from your work. You’ll get lost in the accolades instead of reaching your goals.”
Ranbir emphasized that the Kapoor family instills the value of hard work, even in the face of success. The elders encourage the younger generation to concentrate on improving their craft rather than seeking praise.
The Kapoor family is regarded as one of the most influential dynasties in Indian cinema. Prithviraj Kapoor laid the foundation of their cinematic legacy, establishing a unique identity in Indian theater and film. His sons, Raj, Shami, and Shashi Kapoor, furthered this legacy, each carving out their own identities as actors.
Raj Kapoor, in addition to acting, also directed and produced many memorable films in Hindi cinema. Following him, his sons Randhir, Rishi, and Rajiv Kapoor also entered the film industry. The next generation includes stars like Karisma Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Ranbir Kapoor, who continue to uphold this rich heritage.
