Sunil Dutt, timeless star known for his remarkable performances and direction, once had doubts about casting superstar Amitabh Bachchan due to his voice. The veteran actor-director who helmed films like Yeh Aag Kab Bujhegi and Dard Ka Rishta, was looking for a second lead for his 1971 film Reshma Aur Shera. And before finalizing the cast, Sunil Dutt was unsure about Amitabh Bachchan’s deep voice and appearance. Recalling this lesser-known anecdote, actor-director Akashdeep Sabir shared the story in an interview with Lehren Retro.
Akashdeep Sabir spoke about Amitabh Bachchan’s early struggles before becoming Bollywood’s biggest superstar. The actor who is now hailed for redefining Hindi cinema, also once faced criticism for his height and deep base voice. Akashdeep shared an interesting incident involving his father, producer Manmohan Sabir who was working on Reshma Aur Shera.
Recounting the moment, Akashdeep said, “When my father (Manmohan Sabir) was making Saath Hindustani, Sunil Dutt asked for some showreels because he had heard about an interesting actor and he wanted to cast him as a second hero in Reshma Aur Shera. It was 1972, we went and showed Saath Hindustani to him and after the trial my father and Dutt sahab were drinking in the Ajanta lobby. That’s when Sunil Dutt said, ‘Manmohan, this boy is intense, par yeh pahaadi kauwe ki awaaz ka kya karunga yaar.’ (But what do I do about his crow-like voice?)”
Despite his reservations, Sunil Dutt eventually signed Amitabh Bachchan for Reshma Aur Shera – but gave him the role of a mute character, avoiding any concern over his voice. Akashdeep humorously pointed out, “Who does that with Amitabh Bachchan?”
Overcoming these early hurdles, Amitabh Bachchan became one of the most legendary actors of Indian cinema. His powerful performances, commanding screen presence, and unmatched contribution to the industry have made him a household name across generations. Even at 82, he remains active in films and television, working across Bollywood and South Indian cinema.
The post Sunil Dutt Called Amitabh Bachchan’s Voice ‘Pahadi Kauwa’: Akashdeep Sabir Recalls Late Actor’s Shocking First Impression appeared first on India’s Favourite Entertainment Network Since 1987 - Lehren.
source https://lehren.com/sunil-dutt-called-amitabh-bachchans-voice-pahadi-kauwa-akashdeep-sabir-recalls-their-shocking-first-impression/
