In a fascinating throwback, the veteran actor Dharmendra landed the lead role in the 1987 film ‘Aag Hi Aag’ after the legendary actor, late Dilip Kumar was initially considered. According to producer Pahlaj Nihalani, this remarkable casting change wasn’t just a matter of circumstance but it was influenced by a lighthearted moment with Dharmendra, all sparked by the sensational dance moves of a young Govinda in the film ‘Ilzaam’.Here’s how Dharmendra replaced the legendary Dilip Kumar in the movie
Dharmendra replaces the late Dilip Kumar
The remarkable change in casting came about in an unexpected way, with a little help from Govinda’s sensational dance moves in the 1986 hit ‘Ilzaam’. Producer Pahlaj Nihalani shared the story, which revealed how things turned in favor of Dharmendra.Firstly, both ‘Ilzaam’ and ‘Aag Hi Aag’ were produced by Pahlaj Nihlani. In a previously done exclusive interview with us, he recalled visiting the sets of the film ‘Loha’ in Ramgarh, where he was spending time with his friend Shatrughan Sinha and where Dharmendra was also present. Nihalani recounted the public’s reaction upon seeing him: “When I reached the sets of ‘Loha’ and people saw me, they started chanting slogans of some dialogues from ‘Ilzaam’.”The producer then described his first meeting with Dharmendra, which proved to be a pivotal moment. “When Dharmendra saw me—and it was our first meeting—he came up to me dancing a few steps that Govinda had done in ‘Ilzaam’,” Nihalani shared. He went on to say that Dharmendra, known for being a shy dancer, jokingly told him, “Mujhe bhi Govinda jaise dance karvao.” This lighthearted moment captivated the public, who were surprised to see the veteran actor’s spontaneous display.
A dinner that changed everything
Following the public encounter, Nihalani seized the opportunity to discuss his next project with Dharmendra. During a dinner later that evening, he pitched the role in ‘Aag Hi Aag’ to the actor. “I asked Dharmendra if he would like to do my next film, ‘Aag Hi Aag’,” Nihalani said.He was upfront about the nature of the role, telling him he would “have a very pivotal and integral part, but he would have to play father.” To Nihalani’s pleasant surprise, Dharmendra was “game,” and the rest, as they say, is history. The film, directed by Shibu Mitra, who also directed ‘Ilzaam’, went on to become a success, with Dharmendra’s performance earning him praise. Go to Source
