Ranbir Kapoor admits being a 'product of nepotism', doesn't take himself 'too seriously'

Bollywood’s heartthrob Ranbir Kapoor, son of legendary actors Rishi Kapoor and Neetu Kapoor, proudly belongs to the illustrious fourth generation of the Kapoor clan. Despite his privileged background, Ranbir's journey wasn’t an overnight success. He began his career as an assistant director and even faced a flop debut, but through sheer dedication, he earned his place among Bollywood’s finest.

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“I’m a Product of Nepotism”

Speaking at the ‘Tribute to legendary filmmaker Raj Kapoor and Guru Dutt’ session during ‘Celebrate Cinema 2025’ at Subhash Ghai’s Whistling Woods, Ranbir candidly admitted, “I’m a product of nepotism and I got it very easy in my life.”

However, he emphasised that lineage doesn’t ensure longevity in the film world. To stay relevant, he had to carve his individual identity and prove his mettle through performance and perseverance.

The actor, known for acclaimed films like Rockstar, Barfi, Yeh Jawani Hai Deewani, and Animal, said he realised early on that filmmaking is a team effort, not a one-man show.

“If I don’t make a name for myself, I’ll not succeed in the film industry,” he said.

Lessons from Success and Failure

Ranbir reflected on how the Kapoor family’s legacy is filled with both triumphs and setbacks.

“You celebrate our successes, but there are a lot of failures too,” he said.

For him, learning from failure is as valuable as celebrating success.

Growing up surrounded by creativity, Ranbir recalled watching music directors and lyricists gather at his home, debating song lyrics and film scenes for his grandfather Raj Kapoor’s movies.

“It felt like a normal family to me - just one filled with passionate artists,” he smiled.

“Filmmaking Is a Marriage, Not Dictatorship”

Ranbir also shared how he’s learned to not take himself too seriously. He recalled his great-grandfather Prithviraj Kapoor's words and said, "Filmmaking is not dictatorship, it’s a marriage of so many people and artists coming together, and believing in something, and believing in inspiring people." 

Further, echoing his great-grandfather's words, he said, “Kala desh ki seva mein” (Art in service of the nation). He believes that true fulfillment lies in inspiring the next generation through cinema.

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What’s Next for Ranbir

Ranbir Kapoor will next appear in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s ‘Love and War’, alongside Vicky Kaushal and Alia Bhatt, and in Nitesh Tiwari’s ‘Ramayana’, co-starring Yash, Sunny Deol and Sai Pallavi- both eagerly awaited by fans and critics alike.