Rajesh Khanna, the original superstar of Indian cinema, was known for his unmatched popularity and massive fan base. From 1970 to 1987, he reigned as the highest-paid actor, delivering 15 consecutive hits before his career took an unexpected dip. While his success at the box office is well documented, a lesser-known aspect of his career is his unique decision regarding his 1971 film, Anand.

A Genius Business Decision

Despite his dominance at the box office, Rajesh Khanna didn’t accept any payment for his iconic role in Anand. Instead, he secured the distribution rights for the film under his company, Shaktiraj Films. This move, at the time, seemed unconventional, but it turned out to be a brilliant business decision. The success of Anand propelled his company to great heights, yielding ten times what his typical fee would have been.

Historian Dilip Thakur shared insights into Khanna’s strategy: “Khanna didn’t charge any remuneration for Anand. Instead, he obtained the distribution rights under his firm Shaktiraj Films.”

This decision showcased Khanna’s astute business acumen and foresight, marking a bold move that went beyond simply acting.

Behind-the-Scenes Insights

Before Khanna landed the role, the film’s director, Hrishikesh Mukherjee, considered both Kishore Kumar and Dharmendra for the lead. In fact, Mukherjee even shared the story with Dharmendra during a flight from Chennai to Mumbai. However, fate intervened, and Khanna ultimately secured the coveted role.

The film’s success wasn’t just about the lead actor’s charisma, it also hinged on the director’s commitment and Khanna’s dedication. Mukherjee insisted on securing bulk dates from Khanna, despite his busy schedule with back-to-back film commitments. Khanna, in his characteristic dedication, readily agreed, enabling the completion of Anand’s shoot in a remarkably short 28 days.

“Hrishi Da insisted that Khanna give him his dates in bulk,” Thakur revealed. “Anand’s shoot was completed in 28 days.”

The Legacy of Anand

Directed by Hrishikesh Mukherjee, Anand (1971) stands as a cult classic in Indian cinema, celebrated for its poignant storytelling and captivating performances by Rajesh Khanna, Amitabh Bachchan, and Sumita Sanyal. The film delves into the profound story of Anand, a terminally ill yet cheerfully optimistic man whose life deeply impacts those around him, particularly his friend, Dr. Bhaskar.

Anand garnered widespread acclaim for its emotional depth, memorable dialogues such as “Zindagi badi honi chahiye, lambi nahi” (Life should be big, not long), and its timeless music composed by Salil Chowdhury.

Impactful Story and Themes

The film’s narrative poignantly explores the themes of life, death, and the power of human connection. The heartfelt storyline and impactful performances have solidified Anand’s place as a cherished component of Bollywood’s legacy.

Anand remains relevant to audiences today, resonating with its timeless themes and compelling characters. It’s a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the transformative impact of compelling performances.

Beyond a Superstar: The Businessman

While Rajesh Khanna’s fame stemmed from his exceptional acting talent and screen presence, his business acumen was a driving force behind his success. His strategic move with Anand exemplifies his foresight and his ability to recognize opportunities beyond his acting career.

His decision to forgo payment and secure distribution rights for Anand showcases a keen understanding of the film industry and a willingness to take calculated risks.

This episode from his career paints a more holistic picture of Rajesh Khanna, highlighting the businessman behind the superstar, a side often overshadowed by his remarkable screen persona.

Takeaways

• Rajesh Khanna was not just a superstar, but also a shrewd businessman: His decision to secure the distribution rights of Anand for his company instead of a paycheck demonstrated his keen understanding of the industry and his risk-taking attitude.
• ** Anand remains a timeless classic:** Its powerful narrative, impactful dialogues, and exceptional performances have cemented its position as a cherished gem of Bollywood.
• Rajesh Khanna’s legacy extends beyond his cinematic contributions: His business decisions and strategic maneuvers demonstrate his astute mind and remarkable career foresight.