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The Kapoor family has been a dominant force in the Hindi film industry for nearly a century, earning the title of “Bollywood’s First Family” for their contributions spanning multiple generations. Beginning with patriarch Prithviraj Kapoor in the 1920s, the dynasty has produced prolific actors, directors, and producers, who took Indian cinema to new heights. But did you know that among them there was one member from the Kapoor Khandaan who was among the first internet users in India? This actor, then in his 70s, not only embraced internet technology but also made people aware of it. Here we are talking about the ‘Elvis Presley of India’, the late legendary actor Shammi Kapoor. The second of three sons of Prithviraj Kapoor is still remembered for his magnetic screen presence, remarkable acting, and energetic dance moves. While a very few know that he was also a passionate tech enthusiast. He used the Internet even before it officially arrived in India in the 1990s. For that, he bought an Apple Macintosh desktop and joined the people who connected to the internet through an international dial-up line. Later on, he created the Internet Users Community of India to connect people to the World Wide Web and he himself became its chairman. It started functioning as an Internet knowledge center for new users. Not just this, he also created a website, jungle.org.in, which contained the information of the Kapoor family. It includes who does what, who is interested in what and even the pictures of the Kapoors. Note: The website still exists. He was also the founder of an organization called the Ethical Hackers Association of India. After retiring from films, Shammi Kapoor focused on computers and the Internet, reminding people that they are yet to realise the potential of such powerful technology that could connect people from all over the world. Talking about his acting career, he appeared in several notable films, including An Evening In Paris, Kashmir Ki Kali, Vidhata, Andaz, Brahmachari, China Town and Jaane Anjaane, among others. Shammi Kapoor passed away on August 14, 2011, due to chronic kidney failure. He was 79.
