Satte Pe Satta: When pregnant Hema Malini replaced Rekha opposite Amitabh Bachchan in the blockbuster film; Parveen Babi walked out due to health issues

Amitabh Bachchan and Rekha’s screen partnership remains indelible because their on-screen interactions continued to win hearts whenever they appeared together. The duo produced multiple unforgettable movies, which continue to attract fans even today. Their joint efforts in 'Do Anjaane' (1976), 'Alaap' (1977), 'Khoon Pasina' (1977), 'Ganga Ki Saugandh' (1978), 'Muqaddar Ka Sikandar' (1978), 'Mr. Natwarlal' (1979), 'Suhaag' (1979), 'Ram Balram' (1980), and 'Silsila' (1981) brought them overwhelming adoration and admiration from cinema lovers. These unforgettable love stories made them the most popular cinematic pair of that time. Naturally, when Amitabh Bachchan’s 1982 film 'Satte Pe Satta' was announced, fans hoped to see Rekha alongside him once again—but as we know, she wasn’t part of that project.

Rekha was the first choice for 'Satte Pe Satta'

According to News18, Rekha was originally the first choice to star opposite Amitabh Bachchan in 'Satte Pe Satta,' while another prominent actress was also being considered for a significant role. However, plans took a turn when Rekha had to step away from the project. Around the same time, Parveen Babi, who had already been signed, also exited the film due to health issues. These unexpected changes opened the door for Hema Malini—already an established star with several hits to her credit—to step in as the film’s leading lady.

Preggers Hema's professional commitment

Interestingly, the movie was filmed while Hema Malini was pregnant—a fact that remained unknown to most fans at the time. At Amitabh Bachchan’s personal request, she took on the role and managed to juggle the demanding shoot along with her other professional commitments. During the filming, Hema Malini was expecting her daughter, Esha Deol. To discreetly hide her pregnancy, she smartly draped a decorative scarf during the song 'Pariyon Ka Mela Hai;, reports News18.

Though made on a modest budget and released in the early 1980s, 'Satte Pe Satta' struck a chord with audiences and went on to become a massive commercial success, breaking several box office records. It emerged as the highest-grossing film of the year. The on-screen pairing of Amitabh Bachchan and Hema Malini was especially well-received, playing a key role in the film’s lasting popularity.

At 65, Amitabh Bachchan remains one of Bollywood’s leading superstars, with a fan base in every age group. On the work front, he is preparing to play a negative character alongside Rajinikanth, which will showcase his everlasting versatility and timeless influence in Indian cinema.
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