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Time of India
13 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Casting Guru Dutt: Why Kollywood courted the brooding Bollywood romantic
Apart from his short lifespan of 39 years, filmmaker and actor Guru Dutt had this in common with the epochal Tamil poet Subrahmanya Bharati: like the latter, he received recognition and apotheosis only after his death. Even as Bharati's seminal lines of poetry are eternally etched in the Tamil consciousness, the songs of Dutt's films project evergreen lyrical hues of great human significance. Who can forget Pyaasa's anthemic refrain penned for Dutt by the incomparable Sahir Ludhianvi , 'Yeh duniya agar mil bhi jaaye tho kya hai' (To what avail is personal victory in a world bereft of human values)? More directly underscoring the Tamil literature connection of Dutt was his little-known fascination for the work of the prince-turned ascetic and poet, Ilango, and his urge to picturise his epic 'Silappadhikaram' with Waheeda Rehman playing the role of Madhavi, the other woman in the life of the epic's protagonist Kovalan, who suffered the tragic fate of decapitation for a crime he did not commit. But that was not to be because of Dutt's untimely death in October 1964, either due to a deliberate or involuntary overdose of alcohol and sleeping pills. Known as the grand master of romantic gloom and the alchemist who transformed commercial Hindi cinema's pedestrian formulas through his individualism, artistry, and vision, Dutt's reputation skyrocketed in the decades after his demise, with Time magazine listing his 'Pyaasa' (1958) among the hundred all-time great films of world cinema in 2005. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Trading CFD dengan Teknologi dan Kecepatan Lebih Baik IC Markets Pelajari Undo In the early 1960s, consequent on the resounding failure of his ambitious 'Kaagaz Ke Phool', India's first cinemascope film in 1959, after the commercial and critical success of 'Pyaasa', Dutt became chary of directing films and preferred to essay roles rather than wield the megaphone, though there is speculation that he might have ghost-directed some parts of his successful film 'Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam' (1962), which he produced and played a significant role in. It was at this point that South Indian film producers found it opportune to cast the famous but unassuming director-actor in their quickly made Hindi films based on proven regional language subjects. Guru Dutt too, tired of the tempests raging in his life, both because of his difficult relationship with his wife Geeta Dutt, as well as his growing attachment to Waheeda Rehman, whom he groomed as a heroine, found working in the efficient Kodambakkam studios to his liking. The first South Indian Hindi film in which Guru Dutt played the male lead was 'Bahurani' (1963), which features a gutsy young wife standing up for her newly-wed, somewhat mentally challenged husband, against her violent brother-in-law. The film had been earlier made in Telugu as 'Ardhangi' (1955) and in Tamil as 'Pennin Perumai' (1956). In the Tamil version, Gemini Ganesan essayed the role played by Guru Dutt in the Hindi remake. Guru Dutt was directed in the film by the veteran Telugu-Tamil filmmaker T Prakash Rao, who had such hits as Sivaji Ganesan's 'Uthamaputhiram' (1958) and MGR's 'Padagotti' (1964) to his credit. The film, however, did not make waves. N Vasudeva Menon, an AVM studio manager who became a producer and studio owner himself, booked Guru Dutt for 'Bharosa' (1963), a remake of the Tamil 'Thedi Vandha Selvam' (1958), an ordinary film about a wronged hero with a golden heart. It was a role in which Guru Dutt was comfortable, though the film did not have much to write home about. The famous producer A L Srinivasan, known for his connections with Hindi film personalities and all-India film trade bodies, liked Dutt so much that he booked him for 'Suhagan' (1964), the Hindi remake of his own Tamil hit production, 'Sarada' (1962), which deals with a husband who can have physical relations with his wife only at the risk of dying. Director K S Gopalakrishnan had been fearful of directing a filmmaker of Dutt's stature, but the latter put him at ease. More than 'Suhagan', it was the time Dutt spent with Gopalakrishnan in his village, Malliyam, near Mayiladuthurai, that proved unforgettable. Gopalakrishnan's associate, the respected dramatist and writer Komal Swaminathan, recalled Dutt's easy manner and friendliness in his memoirs. Dutt would spend hours together in the hot sun angling for fish in a village tank. At a time when prohibition was being firmly implemented in Tamil Nadu, Dutt enjoyed potfuls of country toddy with the relish of sipping his favourite Chivas Regal! After all this merriment, some in place, some out of place, Dutt's unexpected death came as a shock to the 'Suhagan' unit, and producer ALS had to release the film with the message, "I humbly dedicate this film to the everlasting memory of the late Shri Guru Dutt, my friend and your favourite". Commercial hype apart, Guru Dutt has proved to be one of the great favourites of world cinema. (The writer is a Chennai-based journalist)
India.com
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- India.com
Dilip Kumar once rejected a blockbuster film due to..., director had to play lead hero, movie was..., it earned Rs...
Dilip Kumar — the undisputed Tragedy King of Hindi cinema — had an envious lineup of iconic films to his name: Devdas, Mughal-e-Azam, Naya Daur, Daag… the list is legendary. But what if we told you that one of the greatest films of Indian cinema, Pyaasa, was originally written with Dilip Kumar in mind — and he turned it down? Yes, the cult classic Pyaasa (1957), directed by the visionary Guru Dutt, almost had Dilip Kumar as its lead. Fresh off his haunting performance in Devdas (1955), Dilip was the obvious first choice. The melancholic tone of Pyaasa — about a disillusioned poet ignored by a selfish world — mirrored Devdas' emotional depth, and Guru Dutt was certain only Dilip could pull it off. Initially, Dilip agreed — until the discussion reached money. Reportedly, Dilip Kumar demanded a then-staggering fee of Rs 1.5 lakh for the film. Guru Dutt, operating on a tighter budget, politely requested a reduction. That didn't sit well with Dilip. In what some now call a moment of ego or misplaced pride, he told Guru Dutt, 'Make the film, and I'll help you distribute it.' That remark cut deep. Guru Dutt, offended but undeterred, responded, 'I've come to cast you, not sell my film.' The fallout was immediate and bitter. Yet ironically, just days later, Dilip Kumar reversed his decision and agreed to do the film. But it was too little, too late. On the day of Pyaasa's ceremonial launch (muhurat), the team waited for Dilip's arrival. Instead, news broke that the actor was in talks with B.R. Chopra about Naya Daur. Guru Dutt had only asked for 10 minutes of his time that day, and Dilip didn't show. In that moment of frustration, Guru Dutt made a snap decision: he would play the lead himself. That gamble became history. Pyaasa went on to become not just the biggest hit of 1957, but a timeless piece of cinematic poetry — one that outperformed Dilip Kumar's own hit, Naya Daur, at the box office that same year. Sometimes, the films actors reject tell a more fascinating story than the ones they star in.
India.com
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- India.com
This superstar sold eggs on road, his fees was more than heroes, Meena Kumari was his…, he is…
This actor was India's most expensive comedian and superstar. He started charging more than the lead hero just by playing supporting roles in films. This star once used to sell eggs on the streets. But when he came into films, he charged more fees than stars like Amitabh Bachchan and Rajesh Khanna. He worked in more than 300 films in his career. Meena Kumari was this actor's sister-in-law. Let us tell you more about this talented actor. The name of this actor is Mehmood Ali, who was a famous and expensive comedian of the 50s and 60s. His father, Mumtaz Ali, was a big name in the world of theater, and Mehmood inherited acting from him. He first stepped into films in the year 1943. The name of the film was 'Kismat'. The financial condition of Mehmood's family was not good, and due to this sometimes he had to sell eggs on the streets and sometimes he also worked as a taxi driver. He was also a driver for famous director PL Santoshi. Due to financial constraints, Mehmood's father started drinking alcohol and remained immersed in it. Due to this his career was ruined and then all the responsibility fell on Mehmood's fragile shoulders. While doing small jobs, Mehmood somehow got entry into films. He started playing the role of a junior artist in films. He was well liked in films like 'CID', 'Do Bigha Zameen' and 'Pyaasa'. After this, Mehmood started getting big roles in films. Mehmood gained so much popularity that he would often charge more than the lead hero of the films. It is said that at one time he started charging more than Amitabh Bachchan and Rajesh Khanna. According to reports, Mehmood used to charge Rs 7.5 lakh for 14 days of shooting. But in the 80s, when comedians like Asrani, Paintal, Jagdeep, Deven Verma and Kader Khan came, Mehmood's popularity started declining. Between 1990-1999, he did only a handful of films. But some of them either got shelved or some did not work. As an actor, he was last seen in the 1994 film 'Andaz Apna Apna'. Talking about Mehmood's personal life, he first married actress Meena Kumari's sister Madhu. In this regard, he was Meena Kumari's brother-in-law. The marriage took place in 1953, but they separated in 1967. He had four sons from Madhu. Mehmood then married Tracy Ali for the second time, with whom he became the father of a son and a daughter.
Pink Villa
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Pink Villa
POLL: Harbhajan Singh, Guru Dutt or Sharath Kamal, whose biopic do you want Vicky Kaushal to star in? VOTE
Vicky Kaushal has quickly become a favorite choice for biopics, thanks to his powerful performances. Now, the question is — which iconic personality should he bring to life next? Is it the cricket legend Harbhajan Singh, the table tennis maestro Sharath Kamal, or the legendary filmmaker Guru Dutt? Cast your vote below and let us know whose biopic you want to see him star in! Harbhajan Singh, Guru Dutt, or Sharath Kamal, whose biopic do you want Vicky Kaushal to star in? Vicky Kaushal has emerged as one of the top choices for biopics. Go vote and let us know whose story you'd like to see him bring to life. Harbhajan Singh Guru Dutt Sharath Kamal 1. Harbhajan Singh In an interview with Zoom, Harbhajan Singh expressed confidence in Vicky Kaushal's abilities, praising him as a brilliant actor. He mentioned that Vicky, being Punjabi and from the same Doaba region as himself, shares a similar accent, which he found impressive. He also complimented Vicky's looks, humorously adding that with makeup, Vicky could easily resemble him. Harbhajan firmly believed that Vicky was capable of portraying him effectively. Additionally, former actress Geeta also supported Vicky Kaushal as the ideal choice for Harbhajan Singh's biopic. She agreed with Harbhajan's views, highlighting Vicky as one of the finest actors today, noting his Punjabi background, tall stature, and distinctive appearance. Geeta expressed her conviction that Vicky would do a fantastic job playing Harbhajan in the biopic. 2. Guru Dutt Mid-day recently reported that Vicky Kaushal is in discussions to portray the legendary filmmaker and actor Guru Dutt in an upcoming biopic. Vicky is considered the frontrunner to take on the role of the iconic personality, celebrated for classics such as Pyaasa, Kaagaz Ke Phool, and Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam. Sources say the makers are looking for an actor who can authentically capture the artist's brilliance and poignant emotions. 3. Sharath Kamal As reported by Free Press Journal, Sharath Kamal stated that before any film adaptation of his life is made, he plans to pen down a book detailing his experiences. He believes that writing provides a clearer perspective and helps form a comprehensive narrative. Sharath further mentioned that once the book is finished, a movie could potentially be made, though he expressed some skepticism about whether his sport has enough popularity to draw attention from filmmakers. Regarding casting choices, he humorously remarked that his main criterion would be for the actor to be tall, hinting with a smile that Vicky Kaushal might be an ideal candidate.
Time of India
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
SRK's son AbRam celebrates 12th birthday, Fans debate why Anushka Sharma is blamed in defeat but forgotten in victory, Vicky Kaushal to play Guru Dutt in biopic: Top 5 news
AbRam Khan celebrated his 12th birthday with family, while Vicky Kaushal is in talks to portray Guru Dutt in a biopic. Anushka Sharma faced online criticism during RCB's losses but received praise after their victory. Navjot Singh Sidhu shared an anecdote about warning Shah Rukh Khan about Bollywood, highlighting SRK's self-assuredness and drive to succeed. Whether it's a much-awaited teaser drop, a heartwarming throwback, or a big update from the industry's favourites — we've rounded up the biggest stories that had fans talking non-stop. From Shah Rukh Khan 's son AbRam ringing in his 12th birthday with Gauri Khan and Suhana Khan, Fans debating why Anushka Sharma is blamed in defeat but forgotten in victory to Vicky Kaushal being reportedly in talks to play Guru Dutt in biopic; dive in to catch up on all the glam, drama, and breaking updates from the world of entertainment! Shah Rukh Khan's son AbRam rings in his 12th birthday with Gauri Khan and Suhana Khan Shah Rukh Khan and Gauri Khan's youngest son, AbRam, celebrated his 12th birthday on May 27, 2025, with an intimate gathering in Mumbai. The cozy celebration included his mother Gauri, sister Suhana, and maternal grandmother. The event featured pizza, a chocolate cake, and heartfelt moments, though Shah Rukh and Aryan Khan were notably absent. Vicky Kaushal in talks to play Guru Dutt in biopic? Vicky Kaushal is reportedly in discussions to portray the legendary filmmaker and actor Guru Dutt in an upcoming biopic. Known for his emotionally nuanced performances, Kaushal is seen as a fitting choice to embody Dutt's complex persona. Guru Dutt, celebrated for classics like Pyaasa and Kaagaz Ke Phool, remains an iconic figure in Indian cinema. The company holding the rights to Dutt's films is planning both web series adaptations and this biographical film. While official confirmation is pending, the prospect of Kaushal taking on this role has generated significant excitement among fans and film enthusiasts. Ajay Devgn confirms Drishyam 3 Shah Rukh Khan's son, AbRam, celebrated his 12th birthday with a family gathering attended by his mother, Gauri Khan, and sister, Suhana Khan. The intimate celebration featured a chocolate cake and a heartfelt note from Gauri, who shared a photo of AbRam on Instagram, expressing her love and pride. Why is Anushka Sharma blamed in defeat but forgotten in victory? Anushka Sharma faced trolling during RCB's losses but was praised after their win against Punjab, as fans called out the double standards. She was seen cheering joyfully in the stands. A recent viral moment shows her hugging a friend, while Kohli's birthday post for her also made headlines. Navjot Singh Sidhu warned SRK about Bollywood; actor REACTS Navjot Singh Sidhu recalled warning a young Shah Rukh Khan that Bollywood would "eat him like a sausage." SRK's confident reply? 'I don't compete with others, only with myself.' The anecdote highlights the fearless mindset that helped him rise to become one of India's biggest and most enduring superstars. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
