Kapoor family is selling RK Studios, Raj Kapoor's iconic property
Rishi Kapoor has confirmed that the family is selling the iconic RK Studios, which showman Raj Kapoor established nearly 70 years ago. The prime reason behind the sale is the fire accident last year, which destroyed many valuables. Rishi revealed the family- his brothers Randhir, Rajiv; sisters Ritu, Rima and mother Krishna Raj, took the decision after a lot of thought and a heavy heart.
Backstory: Fire at RK Studios burnt a lot of memories
Last year, a fire caused heavy damage to the studios, burning a lot of memories to ashes. Raj Kapoor's 'Mera Naam Joker' mask, the piano used in 'Awara', guns of 'Ram Teri Ganga Maili', all got destroyed. So did the costumes worn by iconic actresses like Nargis, Vyjayanthimala and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. After the accident, Kapoors spoke about renovating the studios.
Selling studios might not be a bad idea after all
Speaking about the renovation, Rishi said it's not possible for a phoenix to rise from ashes. He said even a renovation wouldn't have resulted in profits. And he might not be wrong. For years now, filmmakers have been preferring locations like Goregaon and Andheri for filming, and not Chembur. Unlike earlier, not many rent the studios these days, which Raj Kapoor built on loan-money.
An uncertain future also reason behind this decision
While speaking to Mumbai Mirror, Rishi also said an improbable future is the reason behind this decision. He asserted there was enough love between the brothers, but nothing could be said about the kids or grandkids. "What if differences crop up in the next generation? The studio would only end up in litigation as so many industrial and textile estates have," Rishi said.
"If Ranbir wants RK Studios, he can buy from us"
Notably, Raj Kapoor had to mortgage the studios after 'Mera Naam Joker' fell flat at box office. Years later, the success of 'Bobby' helped with the losses. Undoubtedly, a lot of filmmaking memories will be destroyed by the sale. When Rishi was asked, what if son Ranbir wanted to keep it, he replied, " Let him buy it from us then."
