http://www.screenindia.com/fullstory.php?content_id=14080
A few days ago, on November 3, Shashi Kapoor and Prithvi Theatre celebrated the Centenary Year of Prithviraj Kapoor at Prithvi Theatre, Juhu. It was a magical evening attended by the entire Kapoor family, friends and theatre lovers.
After the traditional lamp lighting by the chief guest Habib Tanveer, the guests found their way inside the auditorium. On stage, a vintage theatre with provisions for an audio visual projection served as a backdrop, before which were placed eight ornate chairs awaiting the presence of eight extraordinary artistes.
It is said that in the olden days all Prithvi Theatre plays began with a shehnai rendition... As the audience settled in their seats, the artistes collected backstage for a quiet prayer that comprised a Sanskrit shloka... Today it is the same shehnai notes as the lights turn dim and the stalwarts take seats welcomed by a thunderous applause.
It's an emotional evening and when it ends everyone is moist-eyed. The memories unfolded on stage has told the story of a captivating persona, a charismatic man and a towering actor who journeyed his life and career without compromises.
Outside the auditorium in the cafeteria latecomers flock around the big screen to watch the goings-on. Krishna Raj Kapoor, Neela and Shammi, Neetu and Rishi, grand-daughters Karisma and Kareena with father Randhir are all present. Three generations of artistes collect under one roof for the love of one man - Prithviraj Kapoor .
On my way home, I wonder how many of us are as fortunate to inherit the legacy of a patriarch like Prithviraj Kapoor? And more important, how many of us have been responsible to treasure the legacy and have preserved the spirit and the passion to art, the way Shashi Kapoor has to Prithvi Theatre?
