Contents
Shashi Kapoor, the name itself conjures images of a handsome man with an endearing smile and an aura of sophistication that graced Indian cinema. Born as Balbir Raj Prithviraj Kapoor on March 18, 1938, into the prestigious Kapoor family, Shashi Kapoor was not just an actor but a prolific figure who left an indelible mark on the Indian film industry.
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Balbir Raj Prithviraj Kapoor |
| Profession | Actor, Producer, Director |
| Net Worth | Estimated $80 million (at the time of death) |
| Age | Died at the age of 79 (2017) |
| Spouse | Jennifer Kendal (m. 1958–1984) |
| Children | Kunal Kapoor, Karan Kapoor, Sanjana Kapoor |
| Nationality | Indian |
Shashi Kapoor’s foray into the world of acting was a destiny carved out by his lineage. The youngest son of Prithviraj Kapoor, he had the world of films in his heritage. His journey began on the stage of Prithvi Theatre, founded by his father, which later played a pivotal role in his contributions to theatre and cinema.
Early Life and Career
His sojourn in the film industry started as a child actor in the late 1940s and ’50s with performances in ‘Aag’ (1948) and ‘Awaara’ (1951). He emerged as a leading man in the early 1960s, exuding charm in an era dominated by his contemporaries Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan. Shashi Kapoor was not just a matinee idol but also a bridge between commercial Hindi cinema and the parallel cinema movement, working in critically acclaimed films like ‘Junoon’ and ‘Kalyug’.
Success in Film and International Recognition
Kapoor’s international fame was bolstered through his work in British and American films, most notably his collaborations with Merchant-Ivory Productions. With his impeccable diction and ease before the camera, he became one of the first Indian actors to achieve international acclaim.
Personal Life and Family
Shashi Kapoor’s personal life was as storied as his film career. He married English actress Jennifer Kendal in 1958, and the couple had three children, who each ventured into the film industry. His partnership with Jennifer was not just romantic but also artistic, as they were instrumental in founding the Prithvi Theatre in Mumbai.
Later Years and Legacy
In his later years, Kapoor’s contributions extended beyond acting. His passing on December 4, 2017, left a void in the world of cinema, but his legacy endures through his extensive body of work and his contributions to theatre and film production.
FAQs About Shashi Kapoor
- Who was Shashi Kapoor? An esteemed Indian actor known for his work in both Indian and international cinema.
- What was Shashi Kapoor’s real name? His birth name was Balbir Raj Prithviraj Kapoor.
- What is Shashi Kapoor’s net worth? At the time of his death, his net worth was estimated to be around $80 million.
- How old was Shashi Kapoor when he died? He was 79 years old.
- Who was Shashi Kapoor’s wife? He was married to English actress Jennifer Kendal.
- Did Shashi Kapoor have children? Yes, he had three children: Kunal, Karan, and Sanjana Kapoor.
- What are some of Shashi Kapoor’s most famous films? ‘Deewar’, ‘Kabhi Kabhie’, and ‘Namak Halaal’ are among his famous films.
- Did Shashi Kapoor work in international cinema? Yes, he worked in several British and American films.
- What awards did Shashi Kapoor receive? He received the Padma Bhushan and Dadasaheb Phalke Award, among others.
- How did Shashi Kapoor contribute to the theatre? He was pivotal in reviving and running the Prithvi Theatre in Mumbai.
- Was Shashi Kapoor part of a famous Bollywood family? Yes, he belonged to the renowned Kapoor family.
- What was Shashi Kapoor’s debut film as a lead actor? His first lead role was in the film ‘Dharmputra’ (1961).
- Did Shashi Kapoor have any siblings in the film industry? Yes, his brothers Raj Kapoor and Shammi Kapoor were also famous actors.
- What was the cause of Shashi Kapoor’s death? He died after a prolonged liver cirrhosis battle.
- Is there a biography on Shashi Kapoor? Yes, there are biographies, including ‘Shashi Kapoor: The Householder, the Star’.
