Rajesh Khanna, the legendary actor who became an overnight sensation with Aradhana, was initially reluctant to star in the film. He famously questioned filmmaker-producer Shakti Samanta about his role, asking what he would do in what he perceived as a heroine-oriented project. This fascinating behind-the-scenes story comes from a recent interview with Ashim Samanta, Shakti Samanta's son, who shared untold details about the making of the 1969 classic.
How Aradhana Came Together
Ashim Samanta explained that his father originally planned a film with Shammi Kapoor. However, Kapoor requested six months to lose weight, prompting Shakti Samanta to start a new project. At that time, United Producers had signed Rajesh Khanna to a 12-film contract after he won the Filmfare Talent Contest in 1965. Shakti Samanta decided to cast Khanna in this new venture.
The story of Aradhana came from writer Sachin Bhowmik, who had narrated it to Shakti Samanta about a decade earlier. Samanta remembered the plot vividly and believed it had strong potential. To finalize Rajesh Khanna for the lead role, he watched a reel from Nasir Husain's film Baharon Ki Sapne, which featured Khanna, and was impressed enough to sign him.
Rajesh Khanna's Hesitation
When Rajesh Khanna heard the script, he immediately expressed doubts. He called the film heroine-oriented and asked Shakti Samanta, "Main kya karunga?" meaning "What will I do?" Samanta had to convince him that it was a good film and would become a hit. Khanna ultimately agreed only because he was contractually bound to United Producers. Ashim Samanta noted that without this obligation, Khanna might have refused the role that later defined his career.
The Overnight Stardom
Ashim Samanta witnessed Rajesh Khanna's transformation from a newcomer to a superstar during the film's premiere in Delhi. He recalled that initially, the audience showed little interest in Khanna, focusing instead on Sharmila Tagore and the songs. However, by the interval, people had become fans of Khanna. By the film's end, he had already achieved star status, with the crowd swarming him for autographs.
This shift marked a pivotal moment in Hindi cinema history, establishing Rajesh Khanna as an unprecedented phenomenon. The film's success in Delhi, followed by its release in Mumbai a week later, cemented his place as a cultural icon.
Sharmila Tagore's Last-Minute Exit
The production of Aradhana faced another challenge when Sharmila Tagore abruptly cancelled the shoot for the song Mere Sapno Ki Rani. She informed Shakti Samanta that Satyajit Ray had called her for a film and she could not refuse him. Samanta was angry but powerless to change her decision.
To complete the song, the team used Rajesh Khanna and actor Shoojit Kumar, filming without Tagore. Later, they created an outdoor compartment set to shoot Tagore's close-ups separately. In an interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Tagore explained her dilemma. She had committed to Satyajit Ray without realizing the clash with Shakti Samanta's schedule. She negotiated her dates to work with both directors, highlighting the logistical challenges of balancing multiple projects.
Legacy of Aradhana
Despite the initial hurdles, Aradhana became a superhit and remains a landmark in Indian cinema. It showcased Rajesh Khanna's charisma and Sharmila Tagore's grace, creating magic on screen. The film's songs, direction, and performances continue to resonate with audiences today.
Ashim Samanta's revelations offer a rare glimpse into the making of a classic, reminding us that even the most successful films often face uncertainties and conflicts behind the scenes. The story of Aradhana is a testament to perseverance, talent, and the unpredictable nature of filmmaking.
