Film historian Dilip Thakur: 'Andaz' is historically an important film

'Andaz', released in 1949, stars Nargis, Dilip Kumar, and Raj Kapoor in a poignant love triangle, supported by Cukoo and Murad. Notably, it's the sole film showcasing the iconic pairing of Dilip Kumar and Raj Kapoor. Film historian Dilip Thakur recently shared intriguing insights about the movie in a conversation with ETimes.

Dilip Thakur said, "'Andaz' was the first love triangle film. When the film started, Raj Kapoor’s 'Aag' was released. Raj Kapoor, Nargis, and Dilip Kumar were in the initial stages of their careers. Mehboob Khan brought them together. The news was that somebody had suggested Dev Anand’s name to Mehboob Khan for the role eventually played by Dilip Kumar. But Dilip Kumar has done films like 'Jugnu' and 'Anokha Pyaar'. The entire shooting was done at Central Studio, Tardeo, in Mumbai. It was considered a fast film at the time."

"The love triangle and Dilip Kumar’s negative shade were key points. Many copied the climax of 'Andaz'. Raj Kapoor thought of Sangam’s idea after Andaz’s success. 'Sangam' was earlier titled 'Gharonda' first. Rajendra Kumar was cast after Dilip Kumar said no to the film. Raj Kapoor and Dilip Kumar never worked together after 'Andaz'. Raj Kapoor and Nargis pair was set after 'Andaz'. Mehboob Khan later made 'Mother India' with Nargis. Dilip Kumar got the label of tragedy king after 'Andaz'. In the film, he played a man whose love was one-sided. Another interesting piece of trivia is the theme of a rich girl (heroine) falling off a horse and the hero coming to rescue her, which originates from 'Andaz'. Dilip Kumar saves Nargis and falls in love with her. But Nargis loves Raj Kapoor. That was the love trianglee," he added.

The film historian concluded, "'Andaz' is historically an important film because, after India’s independence, the struggling film industry needed a hit film, and 'Andaz' delivered that."