The 1973 blockbuster Bobby remains one of the most iconic films of Indian cinema, not only because it introduced a fresh wave of romance on screen but also because it marked a turning point in Rishi Kapoor’s career. Behind the glamour of its success, however, lies a lesser-known story — the crucial advice and strict discipline that Rishi received from his father, the legendary filmmaker Raj Kapoor, during its making.
Rishi Kapoor, in several interviews and in his autobiography, recalled how Bobby was more than just his debut as a leading man. It was a film that shaped his approach to acting and life in the industry. Raj Kapoor, who directed the movie, was not merely a filmmaker to his son — he was a mentor who demanded complete dedication.
A Father’s Sharp Lesson on Set
During the filming of the evergreen song Main Shayar To Nahi, Rishi admitted that he was not fully focused. He was young, distracted, and carried away by the excitement of stardom that was beginning to surround him. Raj Kapoor noticed this lack of seriousness. Known for his perfectionism, the senior Kapoor did not let it pass. He stopped the shoot, called out his son in front of the crew, and firmly reminded him that cinema was not a place for half-hearted effort.
The scolding was harsh but necessary. Rishi later confessed that the moment embarrassed him deeply, but it also woke him up to the reality that acting required discipline, sincerity, and respect for the craft.
Advice That Changed Everything
Alongside the reprimand, Raj Kapoor gave his son advice that stayed with him throughout his journey: never take success for granted, and never let complacency take over. He reminded Rishi that an actor’s responsibility went far beyond just delivering lines; it was about living the character and giving the audience their money’s worth.
This guidance became a foundation for Rishi Kapoor’s career, helping him mature from a starry-eyed teenager into one of Hindi cinema’s most enduring romantic heroes.
The Lasting Legacy of Bobby
While Bobby became a runaway hit and cemented Rishi Kapoor’s place in Bollywood, what remained equally significant for him were the lessons behind the camera. The film’s success launched him into superstardom, but his father’s tough love ensured that he never took that fame lightly.
Years later, Rishi would often share this story as proof of how Raj Kapoor shaped not just his career, but his character as an artist. It was a reminder that beneath the charm of stardom lay the hard truths of dedication and discipline — lessons that defined the Kapoor legacy for generations.
