Veteran actress Poonam Dhillon recently opened up about her profound admiration for the late, legendary actor Rishi Kapoor, shedding light on the indelible mark he left on her career and the Hindi film industry. Having shared the screen with him in a string of 1980s blockbusters like Zamana, Biwi O Biwi, and Yeh Vaada Raha, Dhillon’s insights offer a rare glimpse into the genius of a true Bollywood icon.
In a heartfelt conversation with ANI, Dhillon revealed that her most significant lessons in acting came from two stalwarts: Rishi Kapoor and Kamal Haasan. She consistently held them in the highest regard, acknowledging their unparalleled talent and natural approach to performance, which deeply influenced her own craft.
A Masterclass in Emotion: Rishi Kapoor’s Enduring Legacy
Poonam Dhillon articulated what many fans intuitively felt about Rishi Kapoor – his extraordinary ability to convey deep emotion. “He was one of the most talented and natural actors,” she shared, emphasizing her longstanding admiration for him. According to Dhillon, Rishi Kapoor possessed a rare quality that transcended mere acting, making him a true force on screen.
The actress specifically recalled Kapoor’s unique knack for infusing melancholy with a subtle hint of a smile – a cinematic trait she later recognized in his iconic father, Raj Kapoor. This captivating duality allowed him to portray profound sadness while maintaining an endearing, almost hopeful, expression. “He could sing a sad song with a smile,” Dhillon marveled, “and the tragedy was still palpable.” This nuanced portrayal made his characters intensely relatable and profoundly moving.
The Art of Conveying Tragedy with a Smile, Just Like Raj Kapoor
This particular observation highlights a fascinating lineage of acting prowess within the Kapoor family. Raj Kapoor, the legendary showman, was known for his ability to embody the “tramp” archetype, often expressing sorrow with a poignant smile that resonated deeply with audiences. Rishi Kapoor inherited and perfected this subtle art, using his expressive eyes and gentle demeanor to convey complex emotions.
Dhillon elaborated on how Rishi Kapoor could instantly connect with the audience’s emotions, often with just a single glance. His on-screen presence was so compelling that viewers were drawn into his characters’ joys and sorrows effortlessly. “Rishi Kapoor had that quality that he could make you absolutely emotional just by a look,” she affirmed, praising his natural charisma and magnetic screen presence.
Beyond the Screen: Chemistry and Professionalism
Rishi Kapoor’s captivating on-screen chemistry with his leading ladies was legendary, often leading fans to speculate about real-life romances. However, Poonam Dhillon quickly dispelled such notions, attesting to his utmost professionalism.
“Trust me, I don’t think he was in love with any of his co-stars other than Neetu,” Dhillon stated emphatically, referring to his beloved wife, Neetu Singh. This clarification underscores Rishi Kapoor’s dedication to his craft and his ability to create compelling romantic dynamics purely through his acting skill, without personal entanglement. It speaks volumes about his talent as an actor who could make fictional love stories feel incredibly real and deeply resonant.
Poonam Dhillon’s Recent Ventures
While reminiscing about her illustrious past collaborations, Poonam Dhillon remains an active figure in the entertainment world. Her most recent appearance was in the film Ek Kori Prem Katha last year, where she shared the screen with seasoned actors like Raj Babbar, along with Akshay Oberoi and Khanak Budhiraja. Her journey through Bollywood continues to be as diverse and engaging as her memorable performances with her late, cherished co-star, Rishi Kapoor.
