The late Raj Kapoor is known as one of the pioneers of Hindi cinema. He was an actor, director and producer. His illustrious filmography earned him the showman moniker. His greatest hits include Mera Naam Joker, Barsaat, Awaara and Shree 420, among other memorable titles.

The star passed away at the age of 63. On his death anniversary, here are some rare facts about the greatest showman.

1. Raj Kapoor was the actor's stage name. His birth name was Ranbir Raj Kapoor (Raj was the given middle name for all his brothers). Interestingly, his grandson Ranbir Kapoor shares his first name with him.

2. Raj Kapoor made his first movie appearance at 10 years old. He was in the 1935 film Inquilab. It revolved around an earthquake in Bihar and featured Prithviraj Kapoor as well.

3. Raj Kapoor started his movie studio, RK Films at the young age of 24. He became the youngest movie director with his directorial Aag. The film was released in 1948.

4. Raj Kapoor featured in Awaara, the first film to cast three generations of actors from the Kapoor family - Raj Kapoor, Prithviraj Kapoor and Raj Kapoor's grandfather Dewan Basheshwarnath.

5. When Raj Kapoor passed away in 1988, he was working on a film titled Henna. The movie was completed by his sons Randhir and Rishi Kapoor and hit screens in 1991.

Read our detailed account of the late star's life here:

A Father Remembers! A Look Back at Showman Raj Kapoor's Life

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