Golden Days: From Balbir Raj Kapoor to Shashi Kapoor, the tale behind the changed name

In the golden annals of Bollywood, few names shine as brightly as that of Shashi Kapoor. Yet, behind the luminous star persona lies a fascinating tale of how he acquired his iconic name and the myriad anecdotes that adorned his illustrious life.

Born as Balbir Raj Kapoor on March 18, 1938, in Calcutta, Shashi Kapoor's journey into stardom began with a simple yet profound twist of fate. His mother, Ramsarni Kapoor, was not enamored with the name Balbir and found solace in calling him "Shashi," a term that translates to "moonbeam" in English. This endearing moniker stemmed from Shashi's childhood obsession with the moon, spending endless hours gazing at its celestial glow. Thus, the name Shashi Kapoor was born, heralding the advent of a cinematic luminary whose brilliance would illuminate the silver screen for decades to come.


Aseem Chhabra's book, ‘Shashi Kapoor: The Householder, The Star,’ provides captivating insights into Shashi Kapoor's life, shedding light on lesser-known facets of the legendary actor's persona. From familial anecdotes to behind-the-scenes revelations, the book offers a comprehensive glimpse into the enigmatic world of Shashi Kapoor.

One such anecdote delves into the endearing bond shared between Shashi and his brother, Raj Kapoor. Raj affectionately referred to Shashi as "taxi," a playful nickname derived from Shashi's hectic schedule and his constant presence in his car, akin to a taxi. This nickname, born out of Raj's admiration for his brother's dedication and versatility, added yet another layer of charm to Shashi's persona.


Moreover, Chhabra's narrative unveils the tender dynamics of Shashi's relationship with his wife, Jennifer Kendal Kapoor. Jennifer's vigilant oversight of Shashi's diet, characterized by strict adherence to a healthy regimen, ensured that Shashi maintained his svelte physique amidst the indulgences of the film industry. "This is the reason why, unlike the other Kapoor men, Shashi Kapoor stayed slim for the longest time. It was also why a lot of those around Shashi would feel sorry for him," read Jennifer’s words in Chhabra’s book.

Despite occasional jests from colleagues about his minimalist lunches, Shashi remained steadfast in his commitment to Jennifer's dietary guidelines, a testament to their enduring love and partnership.


Shashi Kapoor's cinematic oeuvre spans a diverse array of roles, from iconic classics like ‘Deewaar’ and ‘Kabhi Kabhie’ to lesser-known gems like ‘Sammy and Rosie Get Laid’ and ‘Jinnah.’ While some films may have faded into obscurity, their significance in shaping Shashi's artistic legacy remains undeniable. Chhabra's poignant reflections invite cinephiles to revisit these cinematic masterpieces, rediscovering the nuanced performances that epitomize Shashi Kapoor's unparalleled talent.