Bollywood's classic film An Evening in Paris holds fascinating behind-the-scenes stories that still captivate fans today. Shakti Samanta's son Ashim Samanta recently shared remarkable details about the making of the iconic song "Aasman Se Aaya Farishta." These revelations offer a fresh glimpse into the creative process and personal challenges faced by the stars.
Sharmila Tagore's Bold Fashion Choice
Ashim Samanta disclosed an interesting fact about Sharmila Tagore's costume for the famous swimming scene. Contrary to popular belief, the actress actually wanted to wear a bikini for the song. She approached the director with this bold suggestion, showing her modern sensibilities and confidence in her physique.
Shakti Samanta, however, had practical concerns about censorship. He worried that a two-piece bikini might prevent the film from receiving a censor certificate. The director suggested a one-piece swimsuit instead, which eventually became the iconic costume we see in the film.
Sharmila initially resisted this change. She told the director she wouldn't do the scene unless she could wear her preferred outfit. After some discussion, she reluctantly agreed to try the one-piece. When she saw the final result on screen, she admitted the costume looked good and worked well for the scene.
The Magazine Cover That Created Waves
Sharmila Tagore's comfort with bold fashion choices extended beyond the film set. The year after An Evening in Paris released, she created a sensation by posing in a bikini for a magazine cover. This move surprised many in conservative 1960s India.
In a later interview, Sharmila reflected on this photoshoot. She remembered the photographer expressing more concern than she felt about the revealing outfit. The actress had no personal reservations about the shoot, though she was taken aback by the strong public reaction afterward.
Some critics called it a deliberate attempt to grab attention, while others used stronger language. Sharmila dismissed these accusations, suggesting she was simply young and excited to try something different. She maintained that she thought she looked nice in the photographs.
Shammi Kapoor's Helicopter Adventure
The other memorable aspect of "Aasman Se Aaya Farishta" involves Shammi Kapoor's dramatic entrance. Ashim Samanta revealed that the helicopter idea originated from the actor himself. Shammi casually suggested swinging from a helicopter during a conversation with director Shakti Samanta.
The director immediately loved the concept and declared it would look amazing on screen. Shammi, however, soon realized he had created a problem for himself. He suffered from vertigo and feared heights, making the stunt particularly challenging for him.
Shammi assumed the director wouldn't actually find a helicopter in Beirut, where they were filming. He went to sleep thinking the idea would remain just a suggestion. To his surprise, Shakti Samanta arranged a helicopter by the next morning.
Conquering Fear with Liquid Courage
When Shammi Kapoor learned about the arranged helicopter, he initially panicked. But being the showman he was, he refused to let fear stop him. The actor decided to confront his anxiety in a unique way.
He went to the hotel bar at 10 in the morning, demanding it be opened despite the early hour. The surprised manager complied, and Shammi drank two pegs of brandy to calm his nerves. Fortified by this liquid courage, he declared himself ready for the stunt.
This combination of brandy and bravado worked perfectly. Shammi performed the helicopter entry that became one of Bollywood's most iconic moments. His willingness to push past personal limitations created cinematic magic that audiences still remember decades later.
Shakti Samanta's Directorial Vision
These stories highlight Shakti Samanta's skill as a director who balanced creative vision with practical considerations. He recognized Sharmila Tagore's talent early in her career, though he also noted her stubborn streak during collaborations.
The filmmaker had a knack for creating memorable moments while navigating the constraints of his time. His centenary celebration on January 14, 2026, reminds us of his lasting contribution to Indian cinema. Samanta's filmography includes other classics like Aradhana and Amar Prem, but An Evening in Paris remains particularly special for these behind-the-scenes revelations.
Ashim Samanta's recent conversation with Radio Nasha Official has brought these stories to light again. They show how Bollywood legends worked together to create enduring entertainment, sometimes overcoming personal fears and pushing social boundaries in the process.
