As veteran Bollywood star Randhir Kapoor celebrates his birthday on February 16, fans are revisiting the remarkable yet turbulent journey of the actor who once charmed audiences with his boy-next-door appeal. Known for memorable films like Haath Ki Safai, Jawani Diwani, Biwi O Biwi, and Hamrahi, Randhir was considered one of the promising stars of the 1970s. However, his acting career slowed down much earlier than expected, and the actor himself has candidly admitted to the reasons behind his professional and personal struggles.
Randhir Kapoor
Randhir Kapoor’s Early Stardom and Downfall
Born into the legendary Kapoor family, Randhir carried forward a powerful cinematic legacy. With his charming screen presence and natural acting style, he delivered several box-office hits in the early years of his career. Films like Jawani Diwani and Haath Ki Safai cemented his position as a bankable star. However, despite early success, Randhir’s career witnessed a sharp decline. Over time, fewer successful projects came his way. One of the key reasons he has openly acknowledged was his drinking habit, which affected not just his health but also his professional commitments and personal life.
Randhir Kapoor
Randhir married actress Babita Kapoor on November 6, 1971, after a period of courtship. The couple soon became parents to two daughters, Karisma Kapoor in 1974 and Kareena Kapoor Khan in 1980. But their marriage faced serious challenges. In an old interview, Randhir admitted his shortcomings and spoke about the cracks in his relationship. He shared that Babita was unhappy with his lifestyle, especially his excessive drinking and late nights. By 1988, Babita moved out with their daughters, marking the beginning of a long separation that lasted over three decades.
Randhir Kapoor
In another candid conversation, Randhir Kapoor opened up about the financial pressures he faced during his peak years. Comparing his era to today’s generation of actors, he pointed out how modern stars earn significantly through brand endorsements, events, and public appearances, avenues that were either limited or nonexistent during his time. Interestingly, Randhir Kapoor was initially against his elder daughter Karisma entering the film industry.
Randhir Kapoor
However, circumstances changed, and he eventually supported her decision. Karisma went on to become one of the leading actresses of the 1990s and early 2000s, delivering multiple hits and carving her own identity in Bollywood. Meanwhile, Kareena Kapoor Khan continues to remain one of the most successful and bankable actresses in the industry. Randhir has proudly acknowledged that his daughters are now far more financially secure than he ever was.
