Ranbir and Rishi Kapoor: Subhash Ghai reveals untold family truths

Ranbir Kapoor is widely regarded as one of the most talented and versatile actors of his generation. Over the years, the actor has carefully built a filmography that showcases his range — from romantic dramas like Rockstar and Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani to intense performances in Sanju and Animal. His ability to blend charm, depth, and emotional intensity has made him a favorite among both audiences and critics.

However, Ranbir’s unconventional choices and his tendency to lean toward offbeat cinema often sparked debates — including within his own family. His late father, the legendary Rishi Kapoor, was one of his most vocal critics, frequently expressing concern over his son’s career decisions.

Subhash Ghai Opens Up About Their Relationship

Veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai, who shared a long-standing bond with Rishi Kapoor, recently reflected on the father-son dynamic between Rishi and Ranbir.

“Rishi Kapoor and Ranbir Kapoor are two different personalities,” Ghai revealed. “The way a younger generation wants to live is something that fathers usually dislike, and what fathers want, sons tend to oppose. So they used to fight a lot — just like any regular father and son. There was immense love, too. Rishi always felt that Ranbir was leaning too much toward western cinema and wanted him to embrace Hindi cinema fully.”

Rishi’s Concerns About Ranbir’s Choices

Ghai shared that when Ranbir returned from New York after studying filmmaking, he and Rishi often had creative disagreements. “Rishi used to tell me how he scolded Ranbir for his film choices. Ranbir would never answer back, but later he would complain to Neetu Kapoor, saying she should let him make his own decisions,” he added.

According to Ghai, the contrasting personalities of father and son often created friction, but this was also rooted in Rishi’s deep affection and desire to see his son succeed.

Ranbir’s Rise and Rishi’s Absence

Subhash Ghai also expressed sadness that Rishi Kapoor was not around to witness the peak of Ranbir’s career. “When Ranbir does a role, he completely surrenders to it. He has taken risks — some worked, some didn’t — but today he has proved that he is both a number one star and a number one actor,” Ghai said.

He continued, “These days, the media quickly labels anyone with four hits a ‘superstar’, but Ranbir has real substance. Sometimes I think of Rishi and wish he could see how far his son has come. I used to tell Rishi, ‘Don’t pester him too much. Let him follow his own path.’ But that’s how fathers are — always concerned, always protective.”

The Actor’s Humility and Maturity

The filmmaker also praised Ranbir’s humility and grounded nature despite his massive success. “Ranbir has matured a lot after marriage. He still touches elders’ feet when we meet. Those values are intact,” Ghai noted. “In fact, many new actors today have more attitude than Ranbir. He remains simple, respectful, and focused.”

On Nepotism and Real Talent

Addressing the ongoing nepotism debate in Bollywood, Subhash Ghai emphasized that ultimately, talent and hard work decide an actor’s fate. “There are many from film families who couldn’t make it big because they didn’t have it in them. No surname can save you if you lack talent or dedication,” he said.

He credited Ranbir’s success to his genuine passion for the craft and his willingness to take creative risks. “He’s one of those rare actors who blend art and commerce beautifully. That’s what sets him apart,” Ghai added.

Ranbir Kapoor’s Upcoming Projects

After the blockbuster success of Animal, Ranbir Kapoor continues to remain one of the busiest and most sought-after stars in the industry. He is currently shooting for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s “Love and War”, which also stars Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal.

Ranbir will next be seen in “Ramayan Part 1”, expected to release in 2026, where he reportedly plays Lord Ram. Filming for Part 2 is expected to begin soon. Meanwhile, industry buzz suggests that Ranbir may headline the next installment of the Dhoom franchise — a move that could mark his return to high-octane commercial cinema, something Rishi Kapoor would have loved to see.

Subhash Ghai’s reflections highlight not just the evolution of Ranbir Kapoor as an actor, but also the timeless nature of a father-son relationship — one defined by love, conflict, pride, and growth.

Rishi Kapoor may no longer be around to witness his son’s towering success, but his influence, passion for cinema, and belief in artistic excellence continue to live on through Ranbir’s work. In many ways, Ranbir Kapoor’s journey stands as a tribute to both his father’s legacy and his own individuality.