Rishi Kapoor, fondly known as Chintu ji, was a beloved actor who left an indelible mark on Bollywood and in the hearts of his fans. While his acting prowess made him a star, it was his deep friendships that made him a cherished human being. Even after his passing, the bond he shared with his close friends continues to bring them together, keeping his memory alive in the most heartfelt way.
A Bond Beyond Films: Rishi Kapoor and Prem Chopra
One of the most significant friendships Rishi Kapoor had was with veteran actor Prem Chopra. Although Prem Chopra is known for playing villainous roles on screen, off-screen, he was a close companion to Rishi. Their connection went beyond just being relatives—Prem Chopra is Rishi’s uncle. The two shared a deep friendship that lasted throughout their lives.
The relationship between Rishi and Prem Chopra was unique. Prem Chopra was not only part of Rishi’s first film, Bobby, but also his last, Patel Ki Punjabi Shaadi. In their younger days, they often shared light-hearted conversations, discussing everything under the sun, including girls, which was a common topic of interest. Their open and honest dialogues strengthened their bond, making their friendship one for the ages.
Rakesh Roshan: A Friend Through Decades
Rakesh Roshan, another stalwart of Bollywood, shared a close friendship with Rishi Kapoor. Their friendship was built on mutual respect and shared experiences, both in and out of the film industry. Rakesh Roshan often speaks fondly of their bond, which spanned over four decades.
In an emotional moment during a television show, Rakesh Roshan reminisced about the good old days with Rishi. He shared that even though Rishi Kapoor is no longer with them, his presence is still felt strongly among his friends. Roshan recalled the times they spent together, working on films like Khel Khel Mein (1975) and Aap Ke Deewane (1980), and how those memories continue to bring a smile to his face. Their friendship was so deep that Rakesh often mentions Rishi Kapoor whenever the topic of friendship comes up, proving that true friends remain in our hearts forever.
Jitendra: Sharing Joys and Sorrows
Jitendra, another close friend of Rishi Kapoor, often shares stories about their friendship. The bond between them was evident when Jitendra presented an award to Rishi’s son, Ranbir Kapoor, for being the ‘Maharashtrian of the Year’. Jitendra was visibly proud of Ranbir’s achievements, a sentiment that clearly stemmed from his deep affection for Rishi.
For Jitendra, friendship meant being happy in a friend’s happiness and sharing in their sorrows. He has often expressed how he feels a sense of pride whenever he sees Ranbir Kapoor succeed, as if it were his own son. This shows the depth of the relationship he had with Rishi Kapoor, one that went beyond just them and extended to their families as well.
Raj Bansal: A Friend Who Became Family
Film distributor and trade expert Raj Bansal also shared a close bond with Rishi Kapoor. Their friendship began on the sets of Chandni and grew stronger over the years. Raj Bansal often recalls how Rishi Kapoor was a person who cared deeply for those he loved. Despite his public persona, which some perceived as arrogance, Rishi was a man who valued honesty and loyalty in his relationships.
One of the most touching stories Raj Bansal shares is how Rishi would invite his son, who was studying in Mumbai, to join the family for Ganpati celebrations. Rishi would call and personally insist that Bansal’s son come home for the puja and enjoy a meal with them. This gesture exemplifies the kind of friend Rishi Kapoor was—someone who treated his friend’s family like his own.
The Legacy of Friendship
Even though Rishi Kapoor is no longer with us, his friendships continue to thrive, a testament to the love and respect he commanded from those close to him. His friends still remember him fondly, sharing stories and memories that keep his spirit alive. Whether it’s Prem Chopra reminiscing about their younger days, Rakesh Roshan feeling Rishi’s presence in every memory, Jitendra’s pride in Ranbir’s success, or Raj Bansal’s touching recollections of Ganpati celebrations, Rishi Kapoor’s legacy of friendship remains strong.
Rishi Kapoor’s life was filled with love, laughter, and friendship. His friends continue to honor his memory, proving that true friendships never die. They live on in the stories we tell, the memories we cherish, and the love we continue to share. Rishi Kapoor may no longer be with us, but in the hearts of his friends, Chintu ji will always remain.
