Rajiv Kapoor

Biography

Rajiv Raj Kapoor, also known as Chimpu, was an Indian actor, producer, and director, born on 25 August 1962 in Bombay, Maharashtra, India, into the legendary Kapoor family—often called the first family of Indian cinema. He was the youngest son of the iconic actor-filmmaker Raj Kapoor and Krishna Kapoor, and the younger brother of actors Randhir Kapoor and Rishi Kapoor.

Rajiv grew up surrounded by cinema and showbiz and was naturally drawn to the film industry from an early age. His charm, boy-next-door looks, and acting talent earned him popularity, particularly during the 1980s.

He passed away on 9 February 2021 at the age of 58 due to cardiac arrest in Mumbai.

Career

Acting Career

Rajiv Kapoor made his acting debut in 1983 with the film Ek Jaan Hain Hum, but his breakthrough came in 1985 with the romantic musical drama Ram Teri Ganga Maili, directed by his father Raj Kapoor. The film was a massive commercial success and became the highest-grossing Indian film of the year. Rajiv played the lead role opposite Mandakini, and his performance earned him recognition as a promising young star.

Following this success, he starred in several films throughout the 1980s and early '90s:

Notable Films:

Ram Teri Ganga Maili (1985) – His most iconic role, remembered for its emotional depth and melodious music.

Lover Boy (1985) – A romantic film that tried to cash in on his fresh charm and appeal.

Zabardast (1985) – A multi-starrer action drama featuring stalwarts like Sanjeev Kumar and Sunny Deol.

Hum To Chale Pardes (1988) – A family drama that resonated well with audiences.

Zimmedaaar (1990) – His last film as a lead actor before stepping away from acting.

Despite a promising start, Rajiv’s acting career did not reach the heights of his legendary brothers and father. After a string of underwhelming films, he gradually shifted his focus behind the camera.

Work as Producer and Director

Rajiv Kapoor tried his hand at film direction and production under the banner of R.K. Films, his family's iconic production house:

Prem Granth (1996) – Directed by Rajiv Kapoor and starring Rishi Kapoor and Madhuri Dixit, this film tackled social issues like casteism and sexual violence. Though not a commercial hit, it was appreciated for its serious themes and mature storytelling.

He also worked as a producer on Henna (1991), a cross-border love story conceptualized by his father and later directed by Randhir Kapoor after Raj Kapoor's death. The film was both a commercial and critical success and even became India’s official entry for the Academy Awards that year.

Legacy and Personal Life

Though he didn’t attain the same fame as some other members of the Kapoor clan, Rajiv Kapoor was respected for his gentle personality and deep love for cinema. He remained largely out of the limelight in later years but stayed connected to the industry and his family’s legacy.

Rajiv was unmarried and lived a relatively private life after stepping back from the screen. 

He was all set to make a comeback in a supporting role with the film Toolsidas Junior, which was released posthumously in 2022. The film was well-received, and his performance was praised, marking a bittersweet farewell to his acting journey.