Dev Anand was more than just a matinee idol, he was a symbol of relentless optimism in Indian cinema. Known for his timeless charm in classics like Guide, Jewel Thief, Hum Dono and Hare Rama Hare Krishna, he was also a fearless filmmaker who embraced risks and refused to dwell on failures. Over decades, he directed and produced films that reflected his distinct style and boundless creative energy.
That spirit came alive vividly in a story recently shared by his nephew and director Shekhar Kapur. While speaking in an interview, Shekhar recalled how Dev Anand handled one of the biggest disappointments of his career, the failure of his ambitious 1974 film Ishk Ishk Ishk.
The premiere had barely ended when news began trickling in that audiences were walking out before the film was over. The project had been a personal gamble for Dev Anand, financed with his own money, making the setback even more severe.
Shekhar Kapur remembered the moment with awe. Instead of getting upset, Dev Anand simply excused himself, stepped away for a few minutes, and returned with a spark in his eyes. Without a hint of bitterness, he suggested they start working on a new film immediately, even claiming to have already thought of an idea. For Shekhar, this ability to erase disappointment and move forward with enthusiasm was a skill worth learning.
He also shared another instance that illustrated his uncle’s unique outlook. During a breakfast meeting, a producer described the personal sacrifices he had made to fund a film, including selling his home and his wife’s jewellery. Dev Anand, unfazed, responded that such sacrifices were simply part of how films were made.
Ishk Ishk Ishk, starring Shabana Azmi, Zeenat Aman, Zarina Wahab, Jeevan and Kabir Bedi with music by R.D. Burman may have failed commercially but it remains a testament to Dev Anand’s daring and his refusal to let setbacks define him. For the evergreen star, every ending was simply the beginning of the next story.
