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Last Updated: February 04, 2025, 15:31 IST
Rumy Jafry Remembers Raj Kapoor by Preserving a Cherished Piece of Film History
In a significant move for the real estate landscape, Godrej Properties Ltd acquired the legendary Raj Kapoor bungalow in Chembur in 2023, intending to develop it into a premium residential complex. As the site faced demolition, Rumy Jafry, a close confidant of the Kapoor family, revealed that he preserved a sentimental piece from the actor’s legacy.
Before the house was dismantled, Jafry reached out to Randhir Kapoor for a memento to honor his late friend. After visiting the property, Jafry chose to take home a sofa that had been a constant in Raj Kapoor’s life—an artifact he had used for writing, composing music, and relaxing in the evening breeze.
In a recent conversation with ETimes, Jafry shared the poignant experience of bidding farewell to the bungalow. He recounted, “As the bungalow was set to be torn down, I requested Randhir to arrange a small gathering there, and he kindly hosted a dinner for intimate friends.”
Jafry continued, “[I] expressed my desire to keep something that would remind me of Raj Kapoor, and he was very generous in agreeing.” Accompanied by his son, Jafry took a final tour of the bungalow, capturing the moment with photographs. Initially contemplating taking a bed, he felt a stronger connection to the sofa that held so many of Kapoor’s memories. “Raj Kapoor Saheb enjoyed being outdoors. He would often write music and unwind with drinks in the evenings there,” he reminisced, pointing out the sofa’s emotional significance.
He described his encounter with the wrought iron sofa set that overlooked the lush lawn, noting, “Raj Kapoor Saab never liked confined spaces and preferred sitting outside. I learned that he frequently used that spot for his creative work and to enjoy his evening drink.”
Reflecting on the sofa’s continued presence in his life, Jafry stated, “I brought it home, and it remains a cherished piece. Curiously, visitors who come to my house often recognize it,” emphasizing the deep friendship he shared with Raj Kapoor and the lasting impact of the iconic actor on both cinema and personal memories.
Additionally, Godrej Properties has also acquired RK Studios in Chembur from the Kapoor family as of May 2019, with plans to develop a premium mixed-use project known as Godrej RKS. Furthermore, a luxury residential project was launched at the historic RK Studios in south Mumbai’s Tony Chembur neighborhood in January 2020.
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