Ranbir Kapoor, in a heartfelt conversation with Nikhil Kamath, opened up about his emotional struggles following the passing of his father, Rishi Kapoor. The Bollywood actor, known for his reserved demeanor, revealed the complexities of his relationship with his late father and his inability to express grief traditionally.
Ranbir Kapoor shared that he did not cry when Rishi Kapoor passed away in May 2020 after battling cancer.
Instead, he recalled experiencing a panic attack in the hospital when a doctor informed him that his father did not have much time left. "I remember going up to the room and had a panic attack. I didn't know how to express myself; there was too much happening that was to take. But I don't think I have grieved, understood the loss," Ranbir reflected.
The relationship between Ranbir and Rishi Kapoor was described as distant and troubled.
Despite acknowledging his love for his father, Ranbir admitted that they struggled to connect emotionally. "I loved my father, but my relationship with him was distant and not so great," he said. This emotional distance made it difficult for Ranbir to grieve in a conventional manner, leading to an internalized struggle with his emotions.
Ranbir's emotional turmoil was further compounded by guilt over the strained relationship.
He expressed regret for not being able to bridge the gap between them, especially during the time Rishi Kapoor was undergoing treatment in New York. "The one year we spent together in New York while his treatment was on, he often spoke about that. I was there for 45 days and one day he came and started crying. He has never shown that kind of weakness to me. It was so awkward for me because I didn't know if I should hold him or hug him; I really realized the distance," Ranbir confessed.
Ranbir's candidness about his emotional struggles highlights the challenges of dealing with grief and the impact of unresolved familial relationships. His account provides a glimpse into the complexities of father-son dynamics and the difficulty of expressing vulnerability, especially in a society where traditional masculine roles often discourage open displays of emotion.
The actor also touched upon societal expectations and the pressure to maintain a stoic front. "You are also brought up a certain way where you're told, 'Now you are responsible,' and then certain things play on your mind. I have my mother, sister, wife, a child, and my father passes away... Can I show my weakness? I don't know what it is, but I just didn't show it," Ranbir explained.
Ranbir's sister, Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, also spoke about the family's coping mechanisms following the deaths of Rishi Kapoor and Rajiv Kapoor within a year of each other. She mentioned that the family has grown closer since then, looking out for each other more.
"Many family members have passed on in the family. I am not talking about my immediate family, I am talking about even the extended family. All of us have become closer and more united," Riddhima shared.
This period of loss and introspection has brought the Kapoor family together, fostering a sense of unity and mutual support. The experience has emphasized the importance of familial bonds and the need for open communication and emotional expression.
Ranbir's revelations serve as a reminder of the importance of addressing and resolving emotional conflicts, especially within families. His story underscores the need for understanding and empathy in relationships, highlighting the profound impact that unresolved issues can have on one's mental health and overall well-being.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!