NEW DELHI: Bollywood star Anil Kapoor took a trip down memory lane as his film Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai marked 25 years, revealing that Aishwarya Rai Bachchan had almost opted out of the project.
Released on August 24, 2000, the film was directed by the late actor-filmmaker Satish Kaushik.
Kapoor shared a collage from the film’s shoot on his Instagram story on Sunday, along with a heartfelt note reminiscing about his “dearest friend” Kaushik and the story of how Bachchan joined the film.
The 68-year-old actor said he had suggested Bachchan for the project after working with her in 1999’s musical drama Taal.
“Looking back at Hamara Dil Aapke Paas Hai as it completes 25 years, my heart is filled with memories of my dearest friend Satish Kaushik. I still remember how Aishwarya became a part of this special journey. While we were shooting Taal, I was struck by her incredible talent and suggested her name to Satish ji. Initially, there were some reservations, but once Satish saw her on set, he was convinced. The rest, as they say, is history,” Kapoor wrote.
He recalled that Bachchan had some “concerns” and almost walked out just before filming began. Kapoor and Kaushik visited her at home to persuade her to stay, and thankfully, she agreed.
“Ironically, just before shooting began, Aishwarya had some concerns and almost stepped away. Satish and I went to her home, had a heartfelt conversation, and thankfully, she decided to stay on board. I’m so glad she did, because her performance was phenomenal and the film went on to become a super hit, loved by both the trade and audience,” he added.
Kapoor concluded: “Grateful for the memories, the magic we created, and for my friend Satish, whom I miss dearly every day. #HamaraDilAapkePaasHai.”
The film’s story followed Bachchan’s character, Preeti, who, after testifying against Bhavani Choudhry (Mukesh Rishi) for a murder and suffering horrific consequences, is offered refuge by Avinash (Kapoor).
