Netflix Unveils 'Dining with the Kapoors': A Culinary Journey Through Bollywood's First Family

The streaming giant Netflix recently rolled out its documentary special, Dining with the Kapoors, which delves deep into the rich culinary traditions of the Kapoor clan, arguably Bollywood's most influential dynasty. This exclusive program provides an intimate look at how various generations of the illustrious cinematic family convene for elaborate feasts, highlighting the profound significance of food as the binding element of their shared history and enduring legacy.

The special, a creation of Armaan Jain and helmed by director Smriti Mundhra—whose previous credits include the successful series “Indian Matchmaking” and “The Romantics”—was released on November 21, 2025. This specific launch date was strategically chosen to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the family's revered patriarch, Raj Kapoor, the iconic actor and director whose monumental impact on Indian cinema is still felt today. Adopting a candid, “fly-on-the-wall” approach, the film successfully captures genuine interactions: the spontaneous laughter, shared nostalgic recollections, and the easy, familiar repartee that has defined the “Kapoor Khandaan” for generations.

The star-studded cast featured several prominent family members, including Randhir Kapoor, Neetu Kapoor, Ranbir Kapoor, Kareena Kapoor Khan, and Karisma Kapoor, as well as extended family members Saif Ali Khan and Riddhima Kapoor Sahni. Their collective presence underscores a familial unity that goes far beyond their public celebrity images. Armaan Jain, the project's creator, explained that the documentary serves as a heartfelt, personal homage to his “Nanaji” (Raj Kapoor) and provides a vehicle to honor the enduring ties that hold the family together, with gastronomy consistently positioned at the heart of their relationship.

The gastronomic preferences of the Kapoors are deeply rooted in their ancestral background, stemming from Peshawar in northwest Pakistan, and are matched by their widely recognized passion for good food. Family members frequently describe themselves as a “family of foodies,” often finding that their discussions naturally gravitate toward critiquing specific dishes and recommending dining establishments. Although the dynasty is particularly renowned for its devotion to non-vegetarian fare, especially mutton, their palate is broad, encompassing diverse vegetarian selections such as Palak Paneer. Notably, the beloved Raj Kapoor held a special affection for Yakhni Pulao.

Smriti Mundhra, the director, emphasized her goal was to capture the authentic ambiance surrounding the family table, moving beyond a mere historical account. As seen in the promotional trailer, Kareena Kapoor affectionately characterized her relatives as “funny, close-knit, and loving,” where meals provide the perfect setting for sharing anecdotes and exchanging lighthearted banter. This compelling project, produced with the involvement of Aavashyak Media, grants audiences a comprehensive understanding of the foundational traditions that have sustained this powerhouse dynasty for close to a century. It serves as a vital cultural record illustrating the powerful connection between shared meals, familial bonds, and a lasting cinematic legacy.