The classic-cult film “Baghban” has reached its 20th anniversary since its release today. The film was produced by the legendary B.R. Studios and directed by Ravi Chopra. Superstar Amitabh Bachchan and Dream Girl Hema Malini formed the lead pair, supported by a large cast, making the film one of the most family-oriented and emotionally resonant films of its time.
In a recent interview with Hindustan Times, Hema Malini revealed that she was initially unsure about accepting the role when approached. She said, “I was not doing too many films at that point; I had reduced the number. Actually, I was just not doing anything. That is when Ravi Chopra (the director) came to me and narrated this subject. I was not convinced because I had to play a mother to four elderly boys. I was feeling very awkward, ‘main aisa kaise karun, maine aise mother ka role kabhi kiya hi nahi kisi film mein.’ Then my mother said, ‘if Amitabh Bachchan is doing it, then you can also do it, no problem. He is opposite you,’ I said yes,” shared the veteran actor.
Malini believed that she wouldn’t look like ‘an old woman with white hair’ and wanted to be portrayed in the same way she is in real life. She recalls the special scenes from the movie and the romantic song “Main Yahaan Tu Wahaan.” “It was BR Chopra sahab’s (producer) dream to make this film. He gave me a narration before the shoot started. He was watching all the scenes from day one. I think this must have been the romance he had at his home with his partner. He wanted to bring all those things out,” she added.
The actress has starred in various films with Bachchan and narrates that his (Bachchan’s) jovial nature was still constant and continuous during the time of ‘Baghban.’ “Sabne khushi khushi kaam kiya iss film mein. When Amit ji used to enter the set, he would bring so much light; all the workers used to light up and say ‘arre Amit ji aa gaye,’ unko lagta tha ab koi mazaak karenge. He used to be so jovial, fun-loving. I don’t think he is like that anymore. Pata nahi, thoda serious ho gaye hain aaj kal,” she remarked.
Malini stated that she got to know about the film’s success through her daughter Esha Deol, who was working with Bachchan’s son Abhishek in ‘Dus.’ They kept telling her that the movie was a hit, and although she initially thought they were joking, it turned out to be true.
The film was a well-appreciated masterpiece of its time and was watched by people of all age groups, especially by the elderly and joint families. The film served as a reminder that parents are everything in life, and a family is never complete without them. The movie received critical acclaim from all critics and performed exceptionally well at the box office.
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