Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini starrer “Baghban” remains a classic even 21 years after its release. The film which struck a deep chord with audiences through its portrayal of an aging couple separated to live with their ungrateful children became an unexpected hit. At a time when films with veteran stars in leading roles were seen as commercially risky, “Baghban” stood out. However, few know that this emotional drama was originally conceived decades earlier and was first offered to legendary actor Dilip Kumar in the 1970s.
In a previous interview with a portal, the late “Baghban” director Ravi Chopra revealed that his father and the acclaimed filmmaker BR Chopra had discussed the project with Dilip Kumar many years ago. During the shooting of Ravi’s debut film “Zameer” which starred Amitabh Bachchan and Saira Banu, Dilip Kumar had graciously allowed them to use his house’s garden for a scene.
It was during one of their conversations that BR Chopra narrated the script of “Baghban” to Dilip and he loved the story but unfortunately, other commitments delayed the project. BR Chopra was tied up with several films, while Dilip Kumar wanted to focus on another project first.
Renu Chopra, Ravi Chopra’s wife, shared more details about the film’s initial plans in a 2021 interview with a leading publication. She revealed that “Baghban” was originally set to star Dilip Kumar and Rakhee, with BR Chopra as the director. However, Rakhee opted out, and eventually, the film was shelved when Dilip Kumar fell ill. Renu recalled that although Dilip Kumar and his wife Saira Banu were invited to the film’s muhurat (inaugural ceremony), the actor could not attend due to health reasons. Saira, however, remembered the film’s plot fondly, especially the romantic aspect of the elderly couple’s story.
Achala Nagar, the co-writer of the film’s screenplay and dialogues, shed light on why Dilip Kumar declined the role. When BR Chopra approached him, Dilip Kumar hesitated, noting that many of his co-stars such as Nargis and Meena Kumari were no longer alive and Rakhee had stepped away from acting at the time. Dilip Kumar reportedly felt that no contemporary actress would be suitable for the role opposite him. This hesitation ultimately led to the role being passed on and years later, the project came to life with Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini in the lead.
Despite the long delay, the film became a beloved hit and showcased the emotional depth of its veteran stars Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini.
