Rakesh Roshan Documentary: Behind the Making of Iconic Bollywood Film ‘Karan Arjun’
Released in 1995, Karan Arjun, directed by Rakesh Roshan, is considered one of the most iconic films in Bollywood. Featuring Bollywood superstars Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, the film, which became a box office success, was not without its challenges during production. Now, 30 years later, Rakesh Roshan reflects on these challenges in the documentary The Roshans on Netflix.
The Struggles of Production
Rakesh Roshan recalls the difficulties he faced with the cast, especially with Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, who were initially not convinced about the film’s reincarnation story. According to Roshan, both actors even contemplated canceling the film halfway through. He shares:
“Shah Rukh Khan did not believe in the reincarnation story. Salman Khan said that you are going to make a big film and brought us to this village in Rajasthan. I had a different idea,” said Roshan.
He also added that while the shooting was supposed to proceed smoothly, Shah Rukh and Salman often showed disinterest and didn’t turn up on time. He even had to remind them, “Salman, you are an actor. Don’t imagine where the director should make a film.”
Actor and sitting MP Shatrughan Sinha also corroborates Roshan’s claims, confirming that both Khan actors gave Rakesh Roshan considerable trouble during filming.
Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan’s Reflections
In the documentary, Shah Rukh Khan also opens up about his experience working with Rakesh Roshan, admitting that he and Salman had been difficult during the making of the film.
“Yes, we had to suffer a lot because we were both naughty. Rakesh Roshan’s wife, Pinky Roshan, scolded us many times. She would say, ‘You are giving Guddu (Rakesh Roshan) a lot of trouble, this was not expected from you,'” Khan recalls.
Shah Rukh humorously reveals that whenever something went wrong, he would blame Salman Khan, even though both actors were behaving like “children” on set. He confessed that they had tortured Rakesh Roshan during that time.
The Success and Shah Rukh’s Gratitude
Despite the chaos on set, Karan Arjun went on to become a massive hit, much to the surprise of both Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan. Shah Rukh, reflecting on the film’s overwhelming success, shares how he felt during the film’s release:
“While watching the film, the audience was clapping and whistling. I used to wonder, what did they like about it? Why are they expressing happiness?”
He remembers falling at Rakesh Roshan’s feet after the film’s success, telling him:
“Excuse me. I didn’t understand the film.”
Shah Rukh adds, “It was a completely different experience for me. Sometimes I don’t believe in the character I’m playing, but the audience loves that character. I am happy that I got this opportunity because of Rakesh Roshan.”
A Film That Defined an Era
Karan Arjun remains a beloved classic in Indian cinema, known for its iconic performances, its emotional depth, and its unique portrayal of reincarnation. The film’s journey from struggle to success highlights the invaluable contribution of Rakesh Roshan and his ability to turn challenges into triumphs. The Roshans documentary provides fans with a candid behind-the-scenes look at the making of one of Bollywood’s greatest films.
