Raj Kapoor@100: Junior artist Asha Rani Singh remembers the 'Happy-Go-Lucky' filmmaker

To commemorate the 100th birth anniversary of Raj Kapoor, iconic films featuring the legendary filmmaker are being showcased in 40 cities. Asha Rani Singh, a junior artist who worked alongside Kapoor and his family, recalls her cherished memories with the man she fondly remembers as a "happy-go-lucky guy."

Now 78 years old, Asha Rani’s career spanned 55 years, during which she worked in both black-and-white and color films. She reminisces about her time on Raj Kapoor’s sets, where junior artists were treated with dignity and often included in the creative process. "Raj sahab was a great human being. He respected us a lot and would show us his songs, asking for our honest feedback," she shared. "He would tell us, ‘You are the ones who will decide if my films and songs succeed.’"

Asha worked with Kapoor on several memorable films, including Prem Rog, Ram Teri Ganga Maili, Bobby, and Satyam Shivam Sundaram. She fondly recalls how Kapoor would gather everyone, including junior artists, to preview films before release and encourage their honest opinions. "We were all surprised because his films and songs were always great," she added.

Asha also spoke about the warmth and respect she experienced at RK Studios, which was known for providing separate makeup rooms and bathrooms for female artists, including junior artists. "Raj sahab took special care of the women on set. It wasn’t just for the lead actors but for all of us," she recalled.

On outdoor shoots, Kapoor would treat the entire team with kindness. "After a shoot, he would say, ‘I’m going to show you all a movie’ and would ensure we were well-fed. He was always so cheerful," Asha said.

While Kapoor was a tough taskmaster, he was also approachable and supportive during challenging moments. She recalled a song shoot from Dharam Karam where a few dancers struggled with the steps. "He didn’t get upset. Instead, he stepped in to show us how to do it. He would always say, ‘Don’t be afraid, I’m here to help you.’"

Asha’s admiration for Raj Kapoor extended beyond his professional excellence. "He was a great director who knew how to bring out the best in everyone, whether in acting or dancing," she said. Her favorite film of his was Mera Naam Joker, a movie that, although not a commercial success, presented the "reality of life" in a way she deeply appreciated.

Her work extended beyond Raj Kapoor to other members of the Kapoor family, including Shammi, Shashi, and Rishi Kapoor, as well as Kareena Kapoor. Asha also played Kareena’s grandmother in the actress’s debut film Refugee. "Kareena and Abhishek treated me like family. Kareena used to joke, ‘Asha ji, you’ve worked with all my family members,’" Asha shared.

Beyond the Kapoor family, Asha’s career also included playing body doubles for legendary actresses like Waheeda Rehman and Sadhana. "Waheeda ji trusted me so much that she would often send me on outdoor shoots in her place," she explained.

Asha Rani Singh’s journey in the film industry, working with some of Hindi cinema’s biggest stars, reflects the respect and warmth that Raj Kapoor extended to everyone, regardless of their role. "The love and respect I received from the Kapoor family and other stars like Nargis, Vyjayanthimala, Hema Malini, and Rekha will always remain with me," she said.

As the world celebrates Raj Kapoor’s centenary, Asha’s reflections offer a glimpse into the kindness and humility of a man who truly embodied the spirit of cinema.