Nikhil Nanda, a prominent Indian businessman, is uniquely connected to two of Bollywood's most iconic families. As the grandson of legendary filmmaker Raj Kapoor and the husband of Shweta Bachchan Nanda, daughter of Amitabh Bachchan, he recently shared a deeply personal story about his grandfather and the invaluable lesson he imparted.
How Nikhil Nanda Saw Raj Kapoor as Just a Loving Grandfather
Growing up, Nikhil was unaware of his grandfather's immense fame. To him, Raj Kapoor was simply a caring and loving grandfather, not a cinematic legend. "I was very close to my maternal side of the family, and I still am. My mother used to take me and my sister to Mumbai during our summer vacations. I saw Raj Kapoor as my grandfather; I never realised how famous he was outside the house. We used to have normal moments of joy. He would take us to Geeta Bhavan and Ravi Cafe," Nikhil recalled on Shrishti Sahu's podcast. Those summer trips were filled with simple, happy moments, while the world saw a legend, Nikhil saw family.
The Moment That Changed Everything for Nikhil Nanda
Nikhil truly grasped his grandfather's global fame only while studying in the United States. During a severe snowstorm at the University of Pennsylvania, he struggled to find a taxi. After a long wait, a Russian driver picked him up, and Raj Kapoor's songs were playing. "I told him Raj Kapoor was my grandfather, but he thought I was joking. Luckily, I had a family picture with me. I showed it to him and he stopped the car. That's when I realised the love and impact he had created. The driver didn't charge me for the cab ride," Nikhil recounted. This incident highlighted the deep affection people held for Raj Kapoor across the globe.
The Lesson from Raj Kapoor That Nikhil Nanda Has Never Forgotten
At age 12, Nikhil asked his grandfather a bold question: "What is your expectation of me as a grandson?" Raj Kapoor's response was profound: "Nikhil, when you retire, if you are able to get out of a three-wheeler—not a fancy car—and people love you and salute you for the love and impact you have created around you, then, my son, that is the wealth and reputation you will have created for yourself. That is what I would like you to earn." This advice has guided Nikhil's perspective on success, reputation, and legacy ever since.
Nikhil Nanda as a Father: The Next Generation Finds Its Own Way
Carrying forward Raj Kapoor's wisdom, Nikhil now watches his children—Navya Naveli Nanda and actor Agastya Nanda—forge their own paths. Navya is gravitating toward business and gradually joining the family enterprise, while Agastya has chosen acting, continuing the family's cinematic legacy. Both are building their unique identities, inspired by the values passed down through generations.
