Key Points

Hema Malini's journey to Bollywood began when director K Subramanyan introduced her to Raj Kapoor. He made a bold promise that she would succeed or he'd quit directing. Interestingly, Hema initially doubted her iconic role in Sholay too. She now plans to share these classic films with her grandchildren.

Key Points: Hema Malini Reveals Raj Kapoor Casting in Sapno Ka Saudagar

  • Director K Subramanyan staked his reputation on Hema's acting abilities
  • Raj Kapoor specifically sought South Indian talent after Sangam
  • Hema initially felt disappointed with her Sholay role size
  • Ramesh Sippy convinced her the role would impact audiences greatly
2 min read

When Hema Malini revealed how she was cast in Raj Kapoor's 'Sapno Ka Saudagar'

Hema Malini shares how director K Subramanyan introduced her to Raj Kapoor for her Bollywood debut, overcoming doubts about her acting abilities.

"If this girl does not fit the headlines, right from the beginning, I will cut from my name the word director. - K Subramanyan"

Mumbai, Sep 14

Dream Girl Hema Malini made her Bollywood debut alongside Raj Kapoor in the 1968 drama, "Sapno Ka Saudagar". But did you know how she landed the film?

During her appearance on the popular talk show "Jeena Isi Ka Naam Hai" hosted by Farooq Shaikh, she revealed that when they went to Madras from Delhi, they did not know many people.

Then they met director K Subramanyan. Hema's mother met the filmmaker, as she wanted she should be introduced to the audience there. He arranged a show for Hema.

Director's daughter Padma Subrahmanyam shared that after completing the shooting of "Sangam", Raj Kapoor was looking for another talent from South, and he asked Subramanyan to recommend somebody. He introduced Hema to the showman. However, there was a propaganda going on that Hema cannot act.

Expressing his confidence in Hema, Subramanyan told Raj Kapoor, "If this girl does not fit the headlines, right from the beginning, I will cut from my name the word director." His bold statement even made it to the papers.

In the meantime, Hema's iconic movie "Sholay" completed 50 years of release recently.

During a conversation with IANS, she expressed her desire to show the movie to her grandchildren.

When asked, "We are talking about Sholay even after fifty years. You have grandchildren. Have they seen Sholay?"

Hema replied: "I don't think so, but now that it has completed fifty years, I will show it to them. I will make them sit in my house one day and watch it in mini theatre, definitely."

She further shared that initially she was unhappy with her role in Sholay as she thought it was a small role compared to her earlier hit films like 'Sita and Geeta'.

"When 'Sholay' was offered to me, after making 'Seeta Aur Geeta', the same director, Ramesh Sippy told me, 'So many other characters are there and you are also one of them.' So I was feeling a little disappointed, thinking, 'Why only small role for me? Why not a bigger role?'" Hema stated.

Later, director Ramesh Sippy informed her that her role would have a huge impact on the audience, insisting her to accept it.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Even legends like Hema Malini had doubts about their roles! Can't imagine Sholay without Basanti. Her dhak dhak dance remains iconic after 50 years! 🎬
A
Aryan P
Interesting how South Indian connections helped launch so many Bollywood careers. From Hema Malini to Sridevi and Rekha - the South has given us so many legends!
S
Sarah B
The part about propaganda that "Hema cannot act" shows how even talented people face negativity. But she proved everyone wrong! True inspiration for aspiring actors.
Karthik V
While I admire Hema ji's work, I wish the article had more details about her actual experience working with Raj Kapoor. The Sapno Ka Saudagar making process would be fascinating to know!
M
Meera T
My grandmother still talks about watching Sapno Ka Saudagar in theaters! These stories connect generations. Can't wait to show Sholay to my kids too - timeless classic! ❤️

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