Filmmaker Rajiv Rai recently revealed how Amitabh Bachchan “scolded” him after watching the iconic thriller “Gupt,” and also shared the story of Bachchan rejecting his film during a challenging phase in the superstar’s career.
The “Gupt” Revelation That Shocked Big B
The 1997 film “Gupt,” directed by Rajiv Rai, delivered one of Hindi cinema’s most unexpected twists: Kajol as the killer. This daring choice was revolutionary for its time, especially in an era where female villains were rare in mainstream Bollywood.
Before its theatrical release, Amitabh Bachchan reportedly watched a trial show in Chennai. The very next day, he called Rai, expressing his disbelief and questioning the director’s decision to cast Kajol in such a role. “Are you convinced with what you have done?” Bachchan asked, scolding Rai as a senior industry figure.
Rai recalled how Bachchan “questioned” his confidence in the plot. The director, however, simply asked the veteran actor to wait two days for the public’s verdict. “Gupt” went on to become a massive box office hit, proving Rai’s bold vision right.
Learning from the Legend
Rajiv Rai shared a long-standing connection with the Bachchan family. His father, producer Gulshan Rai, had collaborated with Amitabh Bachchan on several films, including classics like “Deewaar” and “Trishul.”
Rajiv himself had worked as an assistant director on “Trishul” and “Kaala Patthar,” observing Bachchan’s professionalism firsthand. This experience fueled his desire to direct the superstar one day.
When Amitabh Bachchan Rejected a Script
Between 1992 and 1994, during a particularly difficult period in Amitabh Bachchan’s career, Rajiv Rai approached him with a compelling script, co-written with Anees Bazmee. Rai was confident Bachchan would agree, given the quality of the material.
However, Bachchan, navigating a phase of career uncertainty, declined the film. He reportedly told Rai that he wasn’t interested in doing any movies at that time due to his confused state. This rejection left Rai heartbroken, as he had invested considerable effort into the project.
From Disappointment to Blockbusters
Despite the initial disappointment, Rai chose not to dwell on the setback. He realized that if “destiny” didn’t want him to work with Amitabh Bachchan, he would simply collaborate with new talent. This shift in perspective proved to be a turning point.
Following this experience, Rajiv Rai directed “Mohra” with Suniel Shetty, which became a huge success. Soon after, he helmed “Gupt,” starring Bobby Deol, Manisha Koirala, and Kajol, which further cemented his reputation for delivering gripping thrillers.
- Amitabh Bachchan initially “scolded” Rajiv Rai for making Kajol the killer in “Gupt.”
- Rai’s decision to cast Kajol as the villain was considered daring for its time.
- Bachchan rejected a film script from Rai during a challenging phase in his career.
- This rejection led Rai to work with newer actors, resulting in blockbusters like “Mohra” and “Gupt.”
Rajiv Rai’s journey highlights the unpredictable nature of filmmaking and how unexpected turns can lead to career-defining successes.
