Ram Kapoor’s Decision to Pursue Acting Led to 10-Year-Long Rift with Father: A Story of Struggle, Success, and Respect: Ram Kapoor, a beloved face in the Indian television industry, has always been admired for his acting prowess and endearing personality. Known for his iconic roles in shows like Bade Achhe Lagte Hain, Ghar Ek Mandir, and Karrle Tu Bhi Mohabbat, Kapoor became one of the highest-paid TV actors in the country. However, his journey to success wasn’t without its challenges, particularly when it came to his strained relationship with his father, renowned ad guru Anil Kapoor.
A Tough Decision to Walk Away from Privilege
In a recent candid interview with Siddharth Kannan, Ram Kapoor opened up about his difficult relationship with his father, shedding light on a chapter of his life that lasted for a decade. The actor revealed that his decision to pursue acting, rather than take over his father’s prosperous business, led to a 10-year-long rift between them.
Ram Kapoor grew up as the only son of a wealthy businessman, living a life full of privileges. However, as he finished his schooling, he made the bold decision to step away from the cushy lifestyle that came with his father’s success. Instead of running the family business, he chose to follow his passion for acting—a decision that was not well-received by his father.
A Father’s Disappointment and a Son’s Determination
Ram’s father, Anil Kapoor, had always seen his company as a legacy that should be passed on to his son. To him, the idea of his son pursuing a career in acting was unimaginable. Ram recalled telling his father about his ambition to act when he was just 13 or 14. Anil Kapoor did not take his interest seriously, especially since he was a young boy and Anil was a well-established figure in the business world.
“I understood what he must have gone through,” Ram admitted. His father hoped that Ram would carry on the family business, but when his son rejected the idea, it caused a deep strain in their relationship. In the aftermath, Ram fled to the United States to pursue his dream of becoming an actor, enrolling in an acting school of his choice.
Struggles in America and Proving Himself
Ram’s time in America was not easy. His father, upset by his decision, stopped speaking to him and cut off financial support. This forced Ram to fend for himself, taking on odd jobs to make ends meet. From working at Starbucks to selling second-hand cars, the actor had to hustle for rent and food. Despite the financial struggles, Ram looks back on this period with a sense of pride, recognizing that these challenges shaped him into the person he is today.
“It was a tough time, but it taught me a lot. It was a phase of proving myself,” Ram said. He had to convince his family, particularly his father, that his career in acting was not just a phase. While Ram struggled to find consistent work, the pressure to succeed was immense, as his family waited for him to fail. They believed that failure would bring him back to the “right track” of taking over the family business.
Father’s Realization: The Turning Point
It wasn’t until 10 years later that Ram Kapoor’s father finally recognized his son’s success. The turning point came when Anil Kapoor’s employees, who had become fans of Ram, began asking for photographs with him. It was at that moment that Anil Kapoor realized his son had truly made a name for himself in the acting world and wouldn’t be returning to take over the company.
Ram shared, “That’s when dad realised I had become something and that I wouldn’t return (to run the company). For 10 years, we didn’t speak much, and then he slowly developed a respect for me.” This acknowledgment, though delayed, was a turning point in their relationship. Ram later learned from his father’s friends and colleagues how much he respected his achievements, a sentiment that came too late for them to fully reconnect before his father’s passing.
A Legacy of Respect
Ram Kapoor’s journey serves as a testament to his determination and resilience. His relationship with his father, though strained for a decade, eventually saw a shift in the way his father viewed his choices. While the initial years were difficult, Ram’s success in the acting industry helped mend the bond, albeit slowly. His father’s respect for his son’s accomplishments, particularly after his passing, demonstrated the deep-rooted love and pride that came with time.
Ram Kapoor’s story is an inspiring one, showing that following your passion often comes with its set of challenges. The emotional and professional struggle he faced to pursue acting—against his father’s wishes—reflects the price one sometimes has to pay for pursuing dreams that don’t align with familial expectations. Ultimately, Ram Kapoor found success in both his career and his relationship with his father, proving that time and perseverance can heal even the most strained of relationships.
This story is a poignant reminder that success, respect, and understanding are often forged through struggle, and sometimes, it takes years for people to recognize the value in the choices we make.