Bollywood veteran Rajesh Khanna and Amitabh Bachchan starred together in the iconic film ‘Anand,’ which was released on March 12, 1971, marking its 53rd anniversary this year. The film, directed by Rishikesh Mukherjee and based on the friendship of Mukherjee and filmmaker Raj Kapoor, became a blockbuster at the box office. However, a revelation has surfaced 53 years later that sheds light on Rajesh Khanna’s unique financial arrangement for the film.
Rajesh Khanna’s Ingenious Deal: Forgoes Actor’s Fee for ‘Anand’ Role, Rakes in Profits with Distribution Rights
According to film historian Dilip Thakur, Rajesh Khanna did not charge a fee for his role in ‘Anand.’ Instead, he struck a deal that granted him distribution rights under his production banner, Shakti Raj Films. This unconventional approach turned out to be a financially lucrative move for the actor, earning him ten times more than a traditional actor’s fee.
The story of ‘Anand’ initially revolved around Dharmendra, but later, Rishikesh Mukherjee cast Rajesh Khanna for the lead role. The shooting of the film, completed within 28 days, showcased Khanna’s commitment as he dedicated two hours every day, even amidst a busy schedule shooting for another movie.
Dilip Thakur shared an anecdote from Ramesh Sippy, who revealed that Rishikesh Mukherjee approached Rajesh Khanna after learning about the excellent story idea from Rishi Kapoor. Due to Khanna’s busy schedule, Mukherjee proposed a unique deal, asking for dates in exchange for skipping the usual fee. The film’s shooting wrapped up smoothly, and Rajesh Khanna even contributed to the credit song.
Rajesh Khanna’s Bold Move
In a surprising turn of events, Rajesh Khanna did not charge any fee for his role but secured the distribution rights through his production company. This decision proved to be a masterstroke, as it allowed him to earn ten times more than a standard actor’s remuneration.
This revelation adds a fascinating layer to the history of ‘Anand,’ showcasing the unconventional business acumen of Rajesh Khanna, who prioritized distribution rights over a conventional acting fee, ultimately reaping substantial financial rewards. The film remains a timeless classic, not only for its poignant narrative but also for the intriguing story behind its making.