No Distributor Wanted ‘Baghban’, Salman Saved It: Renu Chopra
The Bollywood film industry is known for its unpredictable nature, and sometimes even the most talented filmmakers and actors can face rejection and disappointment. One such instance is the film ‘Baghban’, a family drama directed by Ravi Chopra, which was initially met with apathy from distributors. However, thanks to a cameo by none other than Salman Khan, the film managed to find its way to the big screen.
In a recent interview with Pinkvilla, Renu Chopra, wife of the late filmmaker Ravi Chopra, opened up about the struggles they faced while trying to release ‘Baghban’. According to her, no distributor was willing to touch the film, deeming it outdated and unworthy of their attention.
“We had a hard time finding a distributor for ‘Baghban’. No one wanted to touch the film. They thought it was outdated… someone suggested Salman for the cameo,” Renu Chopra revealed. Her words are a testament to the challenges that even a respected filmmaker like Ravi Chopra faced while trying to get his film released.
The reason behind the distributors’ reluctance to invest in ‘Baghban’ was the film’s storyline, which revolved around an elderly couple’s struggles to raise their grandchildren. The film’s theme, while poignant and relatable, may have been deemed too niche or old-fashioned by the distributors, who were likely more interested in churning out commercially viable films that would appeal to a wider audience.
However, fate had other plans. When Salman Khan was approached for a cameo in the film, he immediately agreed to be a part of it. His scenes were shot in London, and his presence in the film undoubtedly brought a new level of excitement and attention to ‘Baghban’.
Renu Chopra’s words paint a vivid picture of the difficulties they faced while trying to release the film. “When Salman heard the role, he immediately agreed… all of Salman’s scenes were shot in London,” she stated. It’s clear that Salman’s enthusiasm and involvement in the film were instrumental in convincing the distributors to come on board.
The success of ‘Baghban’ can be attributed to Salman’s cameo, which not only boosted the film’s credibility but also drew in audiences who were eager to see the superstar in a new role. The film’s release was a turning point in the careers of its lead actors, including Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini, who received widespread critical acclaim for their performances.
In hindsight, it’s easy to see how ‘Baghban’ was a film ahead of its time. The film’s themes of family, love, and sacrifice are timeless, and its message continues to resonate with audiences today. The film’s success is a testament to the power of storytelling and the impact that a well-crafted film can have on people’s lives.
The story of ‘Baghban’ is a reminder that even in the face of adversity, talent and perseverance can ultimately prevail. Ravi Chopra’s dedication to his craft and his unwavering faith in his story were rewarded when ‘Baghban’ finally found its way to the big screen. And it’s clear that Salman Khan’s cameo was the catalyst that brought the film to life.
In conclusion, ‘Baghban’ is a shining example of the power of filmmaking to transcend time and touch hearts. Despite the initial reluctance of distributors, the film’s success is a testament to the enduring appeal of its themes and the impact that a well-crafted story can have on people’s lives.
