Hema Malini, a legendary figure in the Hindi film industry, recently shared insights about her initial hesitation to accept the role in the iconic film Baghban. Released in 2003 and directed by Ravi Chopra, the film has become a classic, resonating with audiences for its emotional depth and familial themes.
Hema Malini, known for her glamorous roles, faced a significant dilemma when approached for Baghban.At the age of 55, she was hesitant to portray a mother to four adult sons. In her own words, she expressed her concerns in an interview with Bharathi Pradhaan, saying, “Chaar itne bade bade ladkon ke maa ka role karne toh bol raha hai. How can I do all this?” This apprehension stemmed from her desire to avoid being typecast in maternal roles after a sabbatical from acting.
Despite her reservations, Hema’s mother played a crucial role in her decision-making process. During a meeting with director Ravi Chopra, Hema’s mother encouraged her to embrace the opportunity, emphasizing the film’s strong narrative. Hema recalled her mother insisting, “No, no. You must do it. The story is good.” This maternal guidance ultimately swayed Hema to accept the role, which she later described as a “lovely film”.
Last year when the film completed 20 years, Hema Malini expressed her initial reluctance to accept the role in Baghban, stating that she was not doing many films at the time and felt awkward about playing a mother to four grown men. She had never portrayed such a role before and was unsure how to approach it.
In an interview with Hindustan Times she said, “I was not convinced because I had to play a mother to four elderly boys. I was feeling very awkward ‘main aisa kaise karun, maine aise mother ka role kabhi kiya hi nahi kisi film mein’ Then my mother said ‘if Amitabh Bachchan is doing it, then you can also do it, no problem. He is opposite you’, I said yes,”
Baghban tells the poignant story of an elderly couple, played by Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini, who have been married for four decades. After Amitabh’s character retires, the couple seeks support from their four sons. However, their sons are reluctant to care for them, leading to a heartbreaking separation. The film highlights themes of familial duty, love, and the emotional turmoil faced by aging parents.
Alongside Hema Malini and Amitabh Bachchan, Baghban featured a talented ensemble cast, including Aman Verma, Samir Soni, Saahil Chaddha, and Nasir Khan, who portrayed the couple’s sons. Notably, Salman Khan made a special appearance, adding to the film’s appeal.
The success of Baghban marked a significant resurgence in Hema Malini’s career. After taking a break from acting, this film reestablished her as a leading actress in the industry. It showcased her versatility and depth as an actress, allowing her to transition into more mature roles while still maintaining her iconic status in Bollywood.
Hema Malini, known for her glamorous roles, faced a significant dilemma when approached for Baghban.At the age of 55, she was hesitant to portray a mother to four adult sons. In her own words, she expressed her concerns in an interview with Bharathi Pradhaan, saying, “Chaar itne bade bade ladkon ke maa ka role karne toh bol raha hai. How can I do all this?” This apprehension stemmed from her desire to avoid being typecast in maternal roles after a sabbatical from acting.
Despite her reservations, Hema’s mother played a crucial role in her decision-making process. During a meeting with director Ravi Chopra, Hema’s mother encouraged her to embrace the opportunity, emphasizing the film’s strong narrative. Hema recalled her mother insisting, “No, no. You must do it. The story is good.” This maternal guidance ultimately swayed Hema to accept the role, which she later described as a “lovely film”.
Last year when the film completed 20 years, Hema Malini expressed her initial reluctance to accept the role in Baghban, stating that she was not doing many films at the time and felt awkward about playing a mother to four grown men. She had never portrayed such a role before and was unsure how to approach it.
In an interview with Hindustan Times she said, “I was not convinced because I had to play a mother to four elderly boys. I was feeling very awkward ‘main aisa kaise karun, maine aise mother ka role kabhi kiya hi nahi kisi film mein’ Then my mother said ‘if Amitabh Bachchan is doing it, then you can also do it, no problem. He is opposite you’, I said yes,”
Baghban tells the poignant story of an elderly couple, played by Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini, who have been married for four decades. After Amitabh’s character retires, the couple seeks support from their four sons. However, their sons are reluctant to care for them, leading to a heartbreaking separation. The film highlights themes of familial duty, love, and the emotional turmoil faced by aging parents.
Alongside Hema Malini and Amitabh Bachchan, Baghban featured a talented ensemble cast, including Aman Verma, Samir Soni, Saahil Chaddha, and Nasir Khan, who portrayed the couple’s sons. Notably, Salman Khan made a special appearance, adding to the film’s appeal.
The success of Baghban marked a significant resurgence in Hema Malini’s career. After taking a break from acting, this film reestablished her as a leading actress in the industry. It showcased her versatility and depth as an actress, allowing her to transition into more mature roles while still maintaining her iconic status in Bollywood.
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