Director Rajiv Rai reveals Amitabh Bachchan was shocked to learn Kajol was the killer in Gupt: 'He scolded me...'
Rajiv Rai
's 1997 thriller Gupt left audiences stunned with its daring twist—Kajol as the unexpected killer. The reveal didn't just shock moviegoers; it even rattled Bollywood legend
Amitabh Bachchan
.
Bachchan's Strong Reaction to
Kajol
as the Killer
In a recent chat on the Ravi Buleiy Official YouTube channel, the director revealed that Mr Bachchan was surprised by the twist in Gupt and questioned his decision to cast Kajol as the killer.
Bachchan, who had worked closely with Rajiv's father Gulshan Rai on films like Deewaar and Trishul, even scolded him for the bold choice, expressing concern over the unconventional plot.
Doubts and Vindication
Rajiv further shared that Big B questioned his confidence in making Kajol the killer in Gupt, expressing doubts about whether the twist would work with audiences. Rai, however, stood by his decision—and just two days later, the film's massive success proved him right.
He also recalled working as an assistant director on Trishul and Kaala Patthar, where he learned a great deal from Amitabh Bachchan's professionalism. So, when he began directing, he approached Bachchan with a strong script. However, this happened between 1992 and 1994—a period when the actor was facing a rough patch in his career.
When Bachchan Turned Down a Film Written Just for Him
Rajiv revealed that he had collaborated with director
Anees Bazmee
to develop a script specifically for Amitabh Bachchan.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
15 Most Beautiful Female Athletes in the World
WomenSportOnline.com
Click Here
Undo
Confident that the actor would accept it, they presented the narration—only to be turned down. Bachchan, going through a difficult and uncertain phase in his career at the time, chose not to take on any new projects. Rajiv admitted he was heartbroken by the unexpected rejection, especially since he had been certain of a positive response.
The filmmaker further admitted he was deeply disappointed when Amitabh Bachchan turned down his film. While he wasn't upset with the actor, he felt let down by fate after investing so much effort into the project. Determined to move forward, he decided to cast someone new and went on to make Mohra with Suniel Shetty—a film that, like Gupt, went on to become a major box office success.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
32 minutes ago
- Time of India
'I had tears in my eyes': Salman Khan opens up on what happened on the sets of Maine Pyar Kiya
Salman Khan has been a part of Indian cinema for over three decades, but even he remembers the exact moment when he truly felt like an actor. In an interview with Hello! Indo-Arabia, Salman looked back at the emotional turning point that came during the shoot of Maine Pyar Kiya . He was just 18 at the time and filming the now-iconic song Kabootar Ja Ja Ja when it suddenly hit him — this was his role, his moment, and his future. 'I had tears in my eyes,' he shared, admitting that until then, he'd always imagined stars like Jackie Shroff or Anil Kapoor in such roles. That was the day he finally believed he belonged. Interestingly, Maine Pyar Kiya almost had a different leading man. Actor Deepak Tijori recently revealed in an interview with Bollywood Bubble that he was one of the two final contenders for the role of Prem. While he was initially told he got the part, the final decision came down to one unexpected factor — charm. Director Sooraj Barjatya later explained to Deepak that the women in his family were instantly drawn to Salman's boyish appeal and on-screen innocence. While Deepak was praised for his performance, he agreed with the reasoning and gracefully stepped aside. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Indonesia: Unsold Sofas Prices May Surprise You (Prices May Surprise You) Sofas | Search Ads Search Now Undo Now, decades later, Salman is gearing up for a very different kind of role — one rooted in real-life heroism. His upcoming film, Battle of Galwan , will depict the intense and deadly 2020 clash between Indian and Chinese soldiers in Ladakh's Galwan Valley. The film, set at a staggering altitude of over 15,000 feet, aims to showcase the sheer grit and bravery of Indian soldiers who fought without guns — only using rudimentary weapons like sticks and stones. The project promises to be a gritty tribute to modern warfare, highlighting the raw courage and sacrifice that defined one of the most significant border confrontations in recent Indian history.
Time of India
41 minutes ago
- Time of India
Did Rohman Shawl finally give a clarity about his relationship with Sushmita Sen with his anniversary post? The 'Amaran' actor says, ‘A bond that outlived labels, not lovers, not strangers'
Sushmita Sen and Rohman Shawl were dating for a few years. But in 2021, they announced their break-up on social media. They dropped a selfie together and wrote, 'We began as friends, we remain friends. The relationship was long over…the love remains!' While they did say that the love has remained and they bond as friends, it was quite evident as Rohman was seen with Sushmita at several events after her heart-attack. They are still spotted together sometimes and that sparked rumours that they have reconciled. But Rohman's latest post and caption, gives out a message that their friendship and love has outgrown labels, as they complete seven years of being with each other. He took to Instagram, shared a photo with Sushmita where her face wasn't seen but she was tagged. He penned a heartfelt note which read, 'Some stories outgrow their titles, but never their meaning! I taught you chess, you now beat me without mercy. You taught me to swim—dragged a water-phobic soul into the deep end (emotionally and literally). And how can I not thank you for giving me the best haircuts? We swapped roles, fears, and strengths, and somewhere between checkmates and deep ends, we found a bond that outlived labels. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like They Were So Beautiful Before; Now Look At Them; Number 10 Will Shock You Reportingly Undo ' Further talking about what their relationship is, Rohman wrote, 'He went on to reflect on the evolution of their relationship: 'Not lovers, not strangers, something softer, rarer! You were once my safe place & somehow, still are! Grateful for the love we had & the quiet friendship that stayed. @sushmitasen47. #Happyanniversary' Earlier in an exclusive chat with ETimes, when Rohman was asked how he is so secure despite being people associating him as 'Sushmita Sen's boyfriend'. He had said, 'What people think of me has nothing to do with me. That's where my security comes from. I have to know my truth." He further added, "If I'm honest to myself, then what people do is not going to trouble me. That's how I've always led my life and that's where my security comes from. Once you are into this forum, you have to get used to the scrutiny, right? I do that on a daily basis. Even if my parents would bring a topic that they must have heard or read somewhere about me, that also doesn't bother me.'
Time of India
41 minutes ago
- Time of India
Teaser of Raaju Bonagaani's 'Yeh Dosti Crazy Hai' released on 25th July, garners positive audience response
Raasra Entertainment and Aish Films have collaborated on their upcoming film "Yeh Dohsti Crazy Hai". The teaser of the film was released on 25th July. Since the release of the teaser, it has garnered positive audience response. The movie stars Emir Shah, Aishwarya Gowdaa, Sharad Verma, and Raajagopal Iyer. South India's technician Raaju Bonagaani has stepped into dual roles as both producer and director. Known for his extensive behind the scenes work, Raaju now steps into storytelling with his directorial debut. The trailer of the film is expected to follow soon after, with the film's release planned for August. Raaju Bonagaani has long been a respected name in South Indian cinema. His technical mastery and visual sense have shaped many films, but "Yeh Dosti Crazy Hai" marks his first as a director and producer. According to the team, Raaju Bonagaani contributed both his visual expertise and emotional depth to the project. He worked closely with the cast and crew. He often improvised scenes to bring freshness. Raaju's transition from a behind-the-camera role to a role of director is seen as a notable shift by many in the industry. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Walmart Photos Which Are Not For Everyone Old Money Style Undo The teaser of Raaju Bonagaani's directorial debut "Yeh Dosti Crazy Hai" was launched on 25th July. The teaser has grabbed attention across digital platforms. The teaser has given the first peek into how Raaju Bonagaani has visualised friendship on screen. Early reactions to the teaser on social media have been very encouraging. Audience have given positive response to the refreshing cast, cinematography and the music of the film, seen in teaser. A user praised it for perfect combo of friendship, music and emotions. Another user shared, 'This looks fresh! Emir Shah and Aishwarya Gowdaa look great together.' A third user wrote, 'Raaju Bonagaani as a director? Didn't see that coming! Excited!' The comment section is flooded with positive reactions from audience. The film features rising talents and experienced artists. Emir Shah leads as the male protagonist, while Aishwarya Gowdaa takes on the female lead role. Sharad Verma and Raajagopal Iyer also play key parts. The music is being handled by Dilip Bandari and Rajat Ghosh, with cinematography by Venkat Mannam. Dialogues are written by Anshuman, while editing is done by Ravi Kumar Kondaveeti. Each department has been guided by Raaju Bonagaani, whose strong hand has made sure everything connects. The makers believe the fresh casting and dynamic crew will connect well with the Bollywood and South audience. 'Yeh Dosti Crazy Hai' is scheduled for a theatrical release in August. The exact date is to be announced shortly. Raaju Bonagaani's move to direction is being seen as a bold step that could set trends. Raaju Bonagaani's directorial debut is expected to connect with a wide audience, especially after such a strong response to the teaser. Audiences are eagerly waiting to see what this new journey of Raaju Bonagaani delivers.
