Behind the 'Glass Wall'! Here's how Rishi Kapoor shaped Ranbir Kapoor

The Kapoor dynasty has always been Bollywood’s royal family, with talent flowing through generations like an unbroken tradition. From Rishi Kapoor’s magnetic stardom to Ranbir Kapoor’s modern-day charm, the family continues to define cinematic excellence.

Yet, away from the arc lights and applause, their story also carries lessons in discipline and values. Rishi Kapoor, in particular, was a father who drew clear lines- choosing respect over casual camaraderie.

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On Ranbir Kapoor’s 43rd birthday, we revisit a fascinating anecdote that captures the essence of his bond with his father.

Choosing Fatherhood Over Friendship

During a 2015 chat on The Anupam Kher Show- Kucch Bhi Ho Sakta Hai: Season 2, Rishi Kapoor shared why he deliberately kept a father-son relationship with Ranbir instead of being his friend. “I know there are many parents in the film industry who consider their children as friends. I never had such a relationship with my father. I intentionally didn’t keep my relationship with my son that way. Maybe there is a glass wall between us,” he said.

The Glass Wall of Respect

Rishi explained, “We can see each other but not fully feel each other. I wanted that- 'You give me the position that I am elder, that I am your father. I am not your friend.'”

The wall he referred to was symbolic, a way to ensure that respect always took precedence over casual camaraderie. 

Lessons from His Own Upbringing

Reflecting on why he chose this path, Rishi said, “Maybe because I saw that with my grandfather and father. My father did that with me. I wanted the same with Ranbir.”

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What He Gave Ranbir

When asked what he had given his son through this approach, Rishi said, “I’ve given Ranbir the understanding that he must respect his elders and pursue whatever he wants in life. But the wall we’ve kept, I want it to remain.”