Last updated:November 16, 2024, 3:12 PM IST

Subhash Ghai shared how he rekindled the friendship between two of Bollywood’s biggest legends, Dilip Kumar and Raaj Kumar, after 30 years.

Subhash Ghai said Dilip Kumar was like a second mother to him. (Photo: Instagram)

Veteran filmmaker Subhash Gai known for memorable films like Saudagar, Khalanyak and Pardes unveiled his memoir Karma’s Child on November 15 at TATA Theatre, NCPA, in Mumbai. The book, published by HarperCollins, was launched by lyricist and filmmaker Gulzar. Hitting the shelves on November 24, it is Ghai’s attempt to inspire young and upcoming filmmakers. At the special event, a session was held between Subhash Ghai and Imtiaz Ali where he shared an account of his illustrious career and some interesting anecdotes.

During the conversation, Ghai talked about how he rekindled the friendship between two of Bollywood’s biggest legends, Dilip Kumar and Raaj Kumar after 30 years, during his film Saudagar. The two actors fell out while shooting for the 1959 film Paigham, in which Dilip played the role of Raaj’s younger brother. Reportedly, in a particular scene, Raaj slapped Dilip so hard that the actor vowed never to work with him again.

Reflecting on how he managed to convince the two to work together in Saudagar, Ghai said, “I started praising Raaj Kumar in front of Dilip Kumar, and when I met Raaj Kumar, I praised Dilip Kumar in front of him. My so-called ‘fake praise’ eventually brought them back together as friends.”

Later, Subhash Ghai who worked with Dilip Kumar in films like Vidhaata and Karma noted that the late superstar was like a “second mother” who taught him several life lessons. “He was intelligent, smart, educated and a true gentleman. What I learned from him is how to understand life and people deeply,” he says.

Ghai also shared his views on women filmmakers and highlighted that in today’s world, women have the potential to make better films than men. “Women are mothers, sisters, daughters and friends. Creativity is inherent in them, and society must encourage and prioritize their talents,” he said.

Subhash Ghai’s memoir Karma’s Child chronicles his journey from a self-made filmmaker to the founder of Whistling Woods International, India’s premier film school, along with innovative contributions and the challenges he overcame in the competitive film industry.