Ranbir Kapoor on Redefining Fatherhood: ‘I Want to Be Raha’s Friend’

Mumbai: Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor and director Ayan Mukerji during Durga Puja festivities in Mumbai, Maharashtra, late Monday, Sept. 29, 2025. (PTI Photo)(PTI09_30_2025_000009B)

Bollywood actor Ranbir Kapoor has spoken about how becoming a father has reshaped his idea of parenting—one rooted less in emotional distance and more in openness, closeness, and trust.

In a video message circulated by PTI and carried by several outlets, Kapoor reflected on his bond with late actor Rishi Kapoor, saying their relationship had “a little bit of distance,” which he described as typical of that generation. He added that, with his daughter Raha, he wants to “break that glass wall” and build a warmer, more friend-like equation—while still giving her “the wings to fly” in the direction she chooses.

The remarks surfaced around the same time Kapoor was announced as the brand ambassador for PNG Jewellers (P N Gadgil Jewellers)—a heritage jewellery house that has highlighted its legacy-led positioning while expanding its national presence.

Balancing legacy with individuality

Kapoor also addressed the weight of the Kapoor family legacy, suggesting that lineage can’t be a shortcut. He emphasised an “individualistic approach” to growth—adding that each generation must bring something new rather than lean on past achievements.

Alia Bhatt on the change she sees at home

Alia Bhatt has previously described fatherhood as revealing a more emotionally expressive side of Kapoor. In comments reported from her Esquire India interview, she said he is “far more sensitive” than he appears publicly and becomes visibly animated around Raha—“his eyes, his face, everything lights up,” she said.

Work front

On the professional side, Kapoor’s upcoming slate includes Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Love & War (also starring Alia Bhatt and Vicky Kaushal), while reports continue to track progress on Ramayana and the Animal sequel Animal Park, with filming for the latter reported to begin in mid-2027.

By – Sonali