The camaraderie between actors Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor dates back to their early years, long before they became titans of Indian cinema. Not only did the two work in the same industry and support each other throughout their careers, but their connection began in childhood, rooted in a shared heritage and deep mutual respect. In an old interview with Lehren Retro, Dilip reminisced about their childhood in Peshawar and how Raj Kapoor was instrumental in encouraging him to pursue acting.In the interview, Dilip Kumar said, “We come from the same town. I was born in Peshawar, he was born in Peshawar. Our families knew each other. And he was the one who always used to say, when we used to play the game of soccer, he was good goalkeeper and a very good referee, particularly when we used to play against British army teams he used to assert himself… all as a little boy. So he used to tell me you go into films, we both will go into films. But I said no, because that was not the thing in those times you would aspire to do. So I used tell him that you go, your father also does the same, so you should follow his footsteps.”Also Read | Dilip Kumar, Raj Kapoor asked Jawaharlal Nehru about his relationship with Lady Mountbatten; he ‘blushed’ and said, ‘I love all these stories about me’Years later, when Dilip Kumar visited a film set for the first time, it was Raj Kapoor who recognized him immediately, reaffirming a moment he had seemingly foreseen. Recalling that meeting in the same interview, Dilip said, “He said I told you you will be here,” describing Raj’s reaction with evident fondness. Reflecting further on their bond, the actor added, “We had a lovely relationship.”Despite being close, it may come as a surprise to many that the two legends only acted together in one film: Andaz. Released in 1949, the movie was both a critical and commercial success, becoming a milestone in Hindi cinema.Click here to follow Screen Digital on YouTube and stay updated with the latest from the world of cinema.© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd