Did you know Amitabh Bachchan told Mehmood he would not be able to dance in 'Bombay To Goa?' - Exclusive

In the vast cinematic landscape, comedy films often take a backseat when it comes to critical acclaim. However, there are timeless gems, and among them stands the classic 'Bombay To Goa.' Renowned film historian Dilip Thakur, in an exclusive interview with us, sheds light on the enduring charm of this cinematic marvel.

"We don’t value our comedies but some comedy films are timeless and 'Bombay To Goa' is one of those. You can start watching the film from any point and you’ll still be entertained," he said.



He shared a fascinating nugget from the past when he recalled about Aruna Irani's journey in the film industry. "Aruna Irani was a junior artist, and she gradually started getting substantial roles. When Mehmood decided to make 'Bombay To Goa' with N.C. Sippy, he cast Irani as Amitabh Bachchan’s heroine,' he mentioned.

"Irani once shared a trivia about the 'Dekha Na Hai Re Socha Na' song. The set was in Chennai. Amitabh Bachchan was not able to dance properly. He was helpless and told Mehmood that he could not do it. So, Mehmood told the people on set to clap when Bachchan danced so that his confidence would be boosted. This was the first song where Bachchan danced on screen. The song as well as Bachchan became a hit," he added.


Walking down memory lane, he quoted a similar incident that happened with Aruna Irani during 'Caravan (1971).' "She was not able to perform during the shooting of the song 'Dilbar Dil Se Pyaare.' The dance master asked the crew to clap for her to boost her morale," he stated.

"Along with 'Bombay To Goa,' Aruna Irani and Amitabh Bachchan were shooting together for Sanjog as well. They never worked together after that as hero-heroine," shared Dilip highlighting another anecdote from the cine-world.


'Bombay To Goa' is an all-time hit. Mehmood used every opportunity to create comedy in the film. It was a remake of a South film but Mehmood built it up with director S. Ramanathan. They later made 'Do Phool' (1973), 'Sabse Bada Rupaiyaa' (1976). Ramanathan made 'Mahaan' (1983) with Bachchan. Actor-director Sachin Pilgaonkar remade the film with a new angle in Marathi as 'Navra Majha Navsacha' (2004).
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