Ranbir Kapoor: My Journey from Nepotism to Building My Own Legacy

Speaking at a session at the ‘Celebrate Cinema 2025’ festival, Ranbir reflected on his journey and the importance of carving out his identity in the industry.

“I’m a product of nepotism and I had it easy, but I always worked hard because I realized that to succeed in the film industry, I needed an individualistic approach,” he stated.

He highlighted that while there’s admiration for the family legacy, setbacks are also part of the story. “My family has faced failures, and one learns just as much from failure as from success,” he added.

Ranbir, the fourth generation in the renowned Kapoor clan, shared that he grew up amidst creative discussions and collaborations, which shaped his perspective on filmmaking.

“I’ve learned that filmmaking is a collective effort, a collaboration of numerous talents and ideas,” he mentioned while recalling advice from his great-grandfather, Prithviraj Kapoor.

Learning from Experience

Discussing his approach to acting, he revealed that each project and director brings a unique set of demands. His experience as an assistant director helped shape his understanding of performance and scene management.

“Watching veterans like Amitabh Bachchan and Rani Mukerji taught me to analyze rather than copy,” he explained. “Every film has its own rhythm and style; adaptability is key.”

His philosophy encourages aspiring actors to enjoy the process of creation without being confined to a single methodology. “We provide entertainment, and it’s crucial to embrace the process fully,” he advised.

With nearly two decades in the industry, Ranbir hopes to guide emerging talent. “Film schools are vibrant places filled with dreams and energy. I aspire to share my insights and learn from new perspectives,” he said.

At the event, filmmaker Subhash Ghai announced scholarships in honor of Raj Kapoor and Guru Dutt, highlighting the importance of nurturing future filmmakers.