By Jagmohan Singh Barhok
On His Birth Anniversary
Rishi Kapoor was first noticed by most cinegoers in star- studded “Mera Naam Joker” in an unusual role of a student who feasts his eyes on his teachress. He is particularly entranced by the sight of her marvels when she accidentally falls into the river and comes out concealing her nakedness during a school picnic trip. The film turned out to be one of the biggest box office flops, causing huge loss to the exchequer.
Raj Kapoor launched his son Rishi Kapoor with “Bobby” opposite a nubile, young teenage beauty Dimple Kapadia supported by Prem Nath & Prem Chopra. The film did wonders on the box office. People came from nearby towns & cities to see the movie in Delhi after its release in 1973. The music, coupled with the youthful charm of the budding actress, did the miracle. “Hum Tum Ek Kamre Mein Band Hon”, “Jhoot Bole Kauva Kaate”, “Main Shaayar To Nahin, Magar Ai Hasin” & “Beshaq Mandir Masjid Todo” were some of the hit numbers. He was bestowed with Filmfare Award for Best Actor with “Bobby” becoming one of the decade’s biggest hits in India. There was no looking back for the youngster. He went his way breaking all hurdles. Even the phenomenal success of of Rajesh Khanna & later Amitabh did not deter his courage.
