Shehzad Khan Recalls Andaz Apna Apna's On-Set Atmosphere Amidst Rivalry Rumors
The cult classic comedy Andaz Apna Apna has long been shrouded in tales of intense rivalry between its leading ladies, Raveena Tandon and Karisma Kapoor. For decades, reports have painted a picture of a frosty set where the two stars barely exchanged words, engaged in competitive monitoring of each other's costumes, and required director Rajkumar Santoshi's intervention—sometimes forcing them to sit together—to ease the palpable tension. This period is often nostalgically referred to as a form of youthful "classroom politics" within Bollywood's golden era.
A Different Perspective from the Cast
However, Shehzad Khan, son of legendary actor Ajit and the performer behind the memorable character Bhalla, offers a contrasting, more nuanced view from his personal experience. In a recent candid interview, Khan dispelled the notion of a constantly hostile environment, stating, "I never really had to deal with their fights. Both of them were always very nice to me."
He described the overall ambiance as surprisingly warm and familial. "In fact, there was a very warm, family-like atmosphere—sometimes even biryani would come from Salman Khan's house," he recalled, highlighting moments of camaraderie that often go unreported.
Khan did acknowledge sensing a degree of distance, but primarily during specific phases like the filming of the climax. "We only sensed a bit of distance during the climax, maybe they weren't talking much. But I stayed out of all that. I was focused on my work. As a newcomer, you're anyway nervous and careful," he explained, emphasizing his own professional focus at the time.
The Journey to Landing the Iconic Role
Reflecting on his early career struggles, Shehzad Khan shared that persistence was his defining trait. "After that, I kept knocking on doors," he said, referencing his work in films like Qayamat Se Qayamat Tak and Purani Haveli, and the valuable experience of working with veteran Amjad Khan.
The opportunity for Andaz Apna Apna arrived unexpectedly. He recalled producer Vinay Sinha's promise of a role in his next project, which Khan initially dismissed as just another empty assurance. "I thought it was just another 'next film' promise!" he admitted.
The turning point came when he saw a newspaper advertisement featuring the star-studded cast—Aamir Khan, Salman Khan, Raveena Tandon, and Karisma Kapoor—but without his name. "At that very moment, I got a call asking me to come to Sunny Super Sound immediately. I realised something was happening," he recounted.
Rajkumar Santoshi's Crucial Backing and a Father's Displeasure
Shehzad Khan credited director Rajkumar Santoshi for his unwavering support. "He told me, 'I've cast everyone, but for one character—Bhalla—I insisted on you,'" Khan revealed. However, this came with a significant condition: Santoshi demanded that Khan emulate his father Ajit's distinctive voice and acting style.
"He said, 'You have to use your father Ajit's voice and style.' I was nervous... but I agreed. And that's how the journey began," said Khan. This artistic decision, however, did not sit well with his father. "Yes, he was upset. He told me, 'Next time, don't you dare do this again,'" Shehzad disclosed.
Justifying the Imitation and Finding His Space
Despite the initial familial friction, Khan defended his choice by pointing to the audience's positive reception. "What could I do? People appreciated it. At the end of the day, we are entertainers—we are here to entertain the audience," he stated.
He further explained his reasoning to his father, noting that Ajit had retired at the peak of his career, leaving a void for his fans. "I told him that people liked it. Also, he had stopped working at that point. So I said, 'If you're not working, people are looking for you in me.'"
In retrospect, Shehzad Khan believes the situation resolved harmoniously. "Others also started bringing that essence back in their own way. Everyone found their space—I continued doing my work, and others did theirs," he concluded, reflecting on how both his career and the legacy of Andaz Apna Apna found their rightful place in Bollywood history.
