The 2001 film Gadar: Ek Prem Katha, directed by Anil Sharma became a massive success with Sunny Deol and Ameesha Patel’s portrayal of Tara Singh and Sakina capturing audiences’ hearts. When its sequel Gadar 2 released in 2023, it also received widespread acclaim surpassing the original film’s success. However, despite earning major accolades the behind-the-scenes controversy emerged when Ameesha Patel accused Anil Sharma of altering the film’s climax without her consent. She claimed that she was initially told she would kill the villain but it was later changed. Addressing these allegations, Anil Sharma responded in a recent interview, saying, “Main kheechad par patthar nahin phektah” and added that she is free to say what she wants.
Anil Sharma Breaks Silence on Ameesha Patel’s Claims
In an interview with Vicky Lalwani, Anil Sharma was asked about Ameesha Patel’s statement where she credited Gadar 2’s success to herself, Sunny Deol and young actor Utkarsh Sharma, without acknowledging Sharma’s role as the film’s director. Responding to this, he said, “Aisa hai, unke mann mein jo unko kehna hai kehne do. Har vyakti apni zubaan, apni baat kehne ke liye free hai. Unka jo mann hai kehne do, bahut badiya baat hai, unko lagta hai agar aisa hai toh aisa hai. Humko kya lena, audience hai vo decision legi, main kheechad par patthar nahi phekta. Simple si baat hai (If she wants to say something, let her say it. Everyone is free to express their thoughts. If that’s what she believes, then so be it. The audience will decide. I don’t throw stones at the mud. It’s that simple).”
Despite the conflict, he maintained that she is still like family to him. He further stated, “Jisko jo kehna hai kahe mujhe koi tension nahi. Mere liye vo parivarik kal bhi thi, parivarik aaj bhi hai (She can say whatever she wants, I don’t mind. She was family yesterday, and she still is today).”
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Anil Sharma Reflects on Ameesha Patel’s Journey
The director recalled how he personally helped Ameesha Patel prepare for her role as Sakina when she was cast in Gadar: Ek Prem Katha. He revealed that she spent six months training under his guidance, visiting his house daily to perfect her performance. He also mentioned that coming from a privileged background, she has a certain attitude and mood swings and also, he shared that he chose her for the role because of her beauty and dedication. Despite initial struggles, she worked hard to deliver a memorable performance.
Addressing the Changes in Gadar 2
When asked about Ameesha Patel’s allegations regarding changes in the script, Anil Sharma clarified that all decisions were made based on what the film required. He emphasized that the audience’s overwhelming response is all proof on his choices made for the film. Talking about the climax, he explained that it wouldn’t have made sense for Tara Singh to take Sakina to Pakistan while saving their son, as she would have become an easy target which might have affected the impact of the scene.
While Ameesha Patel and Anil Sharma’s statements indicate differences in their perspectives, Gadar 2 has already cemented its place as a blockbuster. The audience, as Sharma pointed out, is the ultimate judge of a film’s success. Despite the controversy, the director has made it clear that he holds no grudges and values his professional relationships.
