From “Koi Mil Gaya” to “Slumdog Millionaire,” Amitabh Bachchan has often been the first choice for roles that later turned out to be massive hits. In another such instance, a small-budget film that Bachchan rejected went on to achieve cult status, making its director a star and running in cinemas for an impressive 175 days. The film in question is none other than “Mr. India.”
Mr. India, a superhero film, was directed by Shekhar Kapur and produced by Boney Kapoor along with Surinder Kapoor under the Narsimha Enterprises banner. The film featured Anil Kapoor, Sridevi, Satish Kaushik, and Amrish Puri in pivotal roles. The making of the film spanned 350 days, and it graced the theaters for 175 days, completing a silver jubilee run.
Initially, real-life writer duo Salim-Javed penned the screenplay of Mr. India, envisioning Rajesh Khanna as the lead. However, they later concluded that he did not quite fit the character. The role was then offered to none other than Amitabh Bachchan. To the writers’ surprise, Bachchan turned down the role with the remark, “The film’s hero is an invisible man, so why do you need me?”
This statement did not sit well with Salim-Javed, prompting them to bring Anil Kapoor on board as the male lead. Boney Kapoor cast Sridevi in the female lead role, and together they anchored the movie that would become a modern classic. The film’s songs, including “Hawa Hawai,” “Kate Nahin Kat Te,” and “Zindagi Ki Yahi Reet Hai,” rose to incredible popularity, creating an unforgettable soundtrack that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Made on a modest budget of Rs 3.8 crore, Mr. India earned over Rs 10 crore at the box office, far exceeding expectations. This success not only turned into financial gains but also translated into recognition. It was Shekhar Kapur’s second film after “Masoom,” and markedly propelled him into the limelight. The film’s positive reception facilitated Kapur’s rise to overnight stardom and solidified his reputation as a notable filmmaker.
Interestingly, despite the screenplay’s success, Mr.
. India was the final collaboration between Salim Khan and Javed Akhtar. The screenwriting pair, who were known for their phenomenal work in Bollywood, parted ways professionally after this film. Their decision to split up left an indelible mark on Bollywood, even as Mr. India continued to be celebrated for its storytelling.
Beyond its commercial success, Mr. India carved out a lasting legacy, attaining the status of a cult classic—a category of films appreciated by generations of movie-goers for their timeless appeal and nostalgic value. To this day, Mr. India is frequently aired on television screens, continuing to capture the hearts of new audiences and old fans alike.
In 2011, Boney Kapoor announced plans for a 3D sequel to Mr. India, titled “Mr. India 2.” The sequel was expected for release in November 2014, but as of now, the filming has yet to commence. The anticipation surrounding the sequel speaks volumes about the original film’s enduring impact and the affection it continues to receive from fans.
The Mr. India phenomenon serves as a telling reminder of the unpredictable nature of the film industry. Amitabh Bachchan, an actor known for his impeccable choice of roles, found himself surprised by the monumental success of the film he once rejected. His decision ultimately paved the way for other talents to shine and for a film to gain an unforgettable place in cinematic history.
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In summary, Mr. India stands as a testament to the unpredictable alchemy of movie-making. Rejected by industry heavyweight Amitabh Bachchan, the film emerged as a surprise blockbuster, cementing its place in Indian film lore and demonstrating that sometimes, missed opportunities can lead to new legends.
