Kishore Kumar avoided the lead role in ‘Anand’
According to poet-lyricist Gulzar’s memoir Actually… I Met Them, Kishore Kumar was initially slated to play the titular hero in the 1971 classic ‘Anand’. Just days before shooting, he shocked everyone by appearing completely bald during a look-discussion meeting, making it clear he didn’t want the role. Gulzar recalls Kishore Kumar dancing and singing, “What will you do now, Hrishi?” leaving the filmmakers stunned.
Rajesh Khanna took over the role
Kishore Kumar’s antics led to the role being quickly reassigned to Rajesh Khanna, who went on to deliver an iconic performance. Gulzar reflected on Kishore Kumar’s unusual methods, noting, “I have never seen someone cutting off their nose to spite their face in such a manner.” ‘Anand’ later became a superhit and won multiple accolades, including the 1972 Filmfare Award for Best Film.
Mischief extended to producers
Beyond directors, many producers faced Kishore Kumar’s playful tricks. Gulzar recounts one instance when a producer came to meet him, and Kishore simply disappeared into a secret staircase hidden behind a cupboard. This elaborate prank left the producer waiting outside, highlighting the singer-actor’s flair for creating absurd and memorable situations.
The tea-stopping recording episode
Kishore Kumar also staged playful interruptions during song recordings. During the recording of ‘Bharosa’, he demanded tea before starting but, after an interminable wait, began recording without drinking it. Gulzar explained that the ruse was intended to make the producer spend on tea for the entire team, revealing Kishore Kumar’s mischievous yet considerate nature toward those around him.
A unique friendship with Gulzar
Gulzar, who worked with Kishore Kumar on multiple projects, described him as a “friend” whose presence was intoxicating, humorous, and impossible to stay upset with for long. The memoir captures the essence of Kishore Kumar’s genius, showing how he combined music, humor, and chaos into a life lived uniquely, alongside other legends like Bimal Roy, Ritwik Ghatak, Hrishikesh Mukherjee, and Mahasweta Devi.
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