Did you know that the casting of Amitabh Bachchan in Deewaar was almost a different story? This iconic Bollywood film, which catapulted Bachchan to superstardom, almost starred Rajesh Khanna instead! But what made the filmmakers choose Bachchan over the already established superstar? Dive into the untold story of Deewaar's casting, exploring the reasons behind the decision and its lasting impact on cinematic history. This fascinating tale delves into the crucial moments that redefined the landscape of Bollywood, giving birth to the "angry young man" of Indian cinema.

The Deewaar Casting Conundrum: Bachchan vs. Khanna

Rajiv Rai, son of the legendary producer Gulshan Rai, recently shed light on this iconic Bollywood mystery. The film's casting was far from straightforward, with Rajesh Khanna initially considered for the lead. However, the script wasn't narrated to Khanna, a decision that was influenced significantly by the movie's screenwriters, Salim-Javed. Salim-Javed, known for their brilliant storytelling, strongly believed that Amitabh Bachchan was the perfect choice for this revolutionary role. This assertion was critical at the time, since Bachchan hadn't yet achieved superstardom; his breakout role in Zanjeer was yet to be released.

Salim-Javed’s Conviction: Bachchan as the Angry Young Man

Salim Khan, himself, later stated that choosing Khanna would have been a compromise. They believed Bachchan's unique charisma and intensity embodied the essence of the role. Despite Khanna's tremendous stardom, Salim-Javed stood their ground, ensuring that the role went to Bachchan. Salim Khan's insights paint a clearer picture: casting Bachchan was not simply about choosing an actor; it was about creating a character that would leave an indelible mark on Indian cinema. Bachchan's persona as the angry young man resonated with the times, and his presence redefined the Bollywood hero archetype. He was not merely a star, he was an embodiment of the generation’s struggle.

The Challenges of Working with Rajesh Khanna

Rajesh Khanna, despite his exceptional acting prowess and incredible charisma, also had his share of reputation related problems. According to Rajesh Khanna's biography, Yash Chopra experienced difficulties during his collaborations with the actor due to Khanna's alleged erratic behavior. Reports suggest that his tantrums and unpunctuality often hampered productions. This made him an unfavorable choice for a movie as complex as Deewaar.

The Ripple Effect: How Deewaar Changed the Game

While Bachchan was far from an established name at the time, Salim-Javed saw something unique, an electrifying energy in him. The choice of Bachchan marked a monumental shift, replacing the era of romantic heroes with a portrayal of relatable angst and turmoil. He was someone the youth could identify with; a common man, rising above his circumstances to address his feelings. The selection set a precedent for future Bollywood movies and actors.

Amitabh Bachchan's Rise to Fame: The Post-Deewaar Era

Deewaar's resounding success, propelled by Bachchan's powerful performance, solidified his position as a Bollywood powerhouse. The film not only changed Bachchan’s career trajectory but revolutionized Bollywood’s storytelling. Bachchan’s image as the “angry young man” became synonymous with Indian cinema. His acting style went beyond traditional, stereotypical, romantic lead roles; instead, he depicted a more emotionally charged portrayal, an anti-establishment narrative.

A Turning Point in Bollywood's History

Deewaar's story isn't merely a tale of casting decisions; it reflects an inflection point in the Bollywood landscape. The movie's influence stretches beyond its box office success, transcending its timeframe. It represented the sentiments of an era, its rebellious spirit and rising disillusionment, captivating viewers.

Take Away Points

• The casting of Amitabh Bachchan in Deewaar was a pivotal decision that defied industry norms at the time.
• Salim-Javed's unwavering belief in Bachchan proved instrumental to the film’s massive success.
• The challenges faced by producers while working with Rajesh Khanna played a part in Bachchan's casting.
• Deewaar redefined the Bollywood hero and set the stage for Bachchan’s remarkable career.