The Kapoor family is widely celebrated as the most significant and enduring film dynasty in the history of Indian cinema. Their legacy, stretching from the earliest days of Bollywood, is built on generations of actors who have left an indelible mark on the industry. While their cinematic contributions inspire millions, an interesting facet of their personal journeys reveals a varied emphasis on formal education, with one member standing out as the academic exception.
The Academic Standout: Riddhima Kapoor Sahni
Riddhima Kapoor Sahni, sister of actor Ranbir Kapoor, holds the unique distinction of being one of the most educated members of the Kapoor clan. She earned a Bachelor's degree in Design and Marketing from the American Intercontinental University in London. This achievement sets her apart in a family where many forayed into films early, making her the family's only true graduate for a long period.
The Star Siblings: Ranbir, Kareena, and Karisma
The educational paths of the other famous Kapoors tell a different story. Ranbir Kapoor once revealed he was the first son in the Kapoor family to complete his 10th-grade board exams, scoring 53%. After finishing school, he decided against further conventional study and moved to New York. There, he attended the School of Visual Arts to study filmmaking and also undertook a method acting course.
His cousins, Kareena and Karisma Kapoor, also chose the screen over sustained academia. Kareena Kapoor Khan initially studied commerce at Mumbai's Mithibai College and later enrolled at the Government Law College. However, she left her law studies within a year to pursue acting. Her elder sister, Karisma Kapoor, left formal education much earlier, after Class 6, to support her mother and quickly ascended to become a leading actress of her era.
A Late Bloomer in Education: Aditya Raj Kapoor
The narrative of education within the family also includes a story of perseverance. Aditya Raj Kapoor, son of Shammi Kapoor, attended The Lawrence School, Sanawar, from 1963 to 1969 before leaving to join films. He worked as an assistant director with his uncle Raj Kapoor on the iconic film 'Bobby' and continued on projects like 'Dharam Karam' and 'Satyam Shivam Sundaram'. While his acting career didn't reach great heights, he demonstrated a commitment to learning later in life. Remarkably, at the age of 67, Aditya Raj Kapoor completed a correspondence course and earned a graduate degree in Philosophy.
The Kapoor family's journey underscores that while talent and stardom can be inherited, academic pursuits are often a personal choice. Their collective story remains a fascinating blend of cinematic glory and diverse personal ambitions, with Riddhima Kapoor Sahni leading the way in formal education.
