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Actor's Emotional Confrontation Led to Iconic Film
21 May
Summary
- Anupam Kher was nearly removed from 'Saaransh' before shooting began.
- He confronted director Mahesh Bhatt, climbing six floors in anger.
- 'Saaransh' became Kher's breakthrough and India's Oscar entry.
Anupam Kher's career-defining role in the 1984 film 'Saaransh' was nearly lost. At 27, he was cast as a 65-year-old grieving father, a part he rehearsed for six months. However, just ten days before filming was to commence, Kher was informed he was being removed from the project to accommodate a bigger star.
Devastated by the setback, Kher decided to leave Mumbai. Before departing, he confronted director Mahesh Bhatt. Climbing six flights of stairs to Bhatt's apartment, Kher emotionally expressed his anger and feelings of betrayal, calling Bhatt a "fraud" and "cheat." During this intense exchange, Kher broke down and uttered a curse.
This emotional confrontation proved to be a turning point. Bhatt, witnessing Kher's passion and distress, reconsidered. 'Saaransh' was ultimately made with Kher in the lead role, becoming his breakthrough film and earning India an entry into the Academy Awards in 1985.
