Raj Kapoor remains one of the most iconic figures in Indian cinema. Known as the “Greatest Showman”, he was more than just an actor. He was a filmmaker, producer and storyteller who shaped Hindi cinema for decades. After him, his sons carried forward the Kapoor legacy, keeping the family name at the heart of Bollywood.
But behind the glittering history of the Kapoor family lies a surprising story involving Raj Kapoor and his son Rishi Kapoor.
In 1982, Raj Kapoor directed Prem Rog, a film that starred Rishi Kapoor and Padmini Kolhapure in lead roles. The film went on to become a box-office success and earned the cult status over time. It is still considered as one of the finest works associated with Raj Kapoor, Rishi Kapoor and Padmini Kolhapure.
However, not many know that Pakistani actress Sangeeta whose real name is Parveen Rizvi was the first choice of Raj Kapoor for the film.
In an interview years later, Sangeeta shared that Raj Kapoor had encouraged her to come to India and work in his film. According to her, he even offered to arrange things in a way that would make it easier for her to settle and act in Indian cinema. She claimed that he suggested organising a “fake marriage” between her and Rishi Kapoor so that she could comfortably work in India without complications.
Sangeeta ultimately declined the offer. She explained that at the time she was young, ambitious and determined to build her career in her own country. Moving to India was never part of her dream.
Parveen Rizvi is a well-known Pakistani actress, filmmaker and director. She has acted in films like Koh-e-Noor, Yeh Aman, Naag Muni, Bin Badal Barsat, Society Girl, and Joora. As a director, she has helmed projects including Ishq Ishq, Mian Biwi Raazi, Mutthi Bhar Chawal, and Yeh Wada Raha.
The story adds an unexpected chapter to the Kapoor family’s rich cinematic legacy.
