In this special In Conversation Subhash K Jha talks with Mahesh Bhatt pays tribute to Vinod Khanna, gives insight into his feeling that he owes his career to the actor with the film Lahu Ke Do Rang, their enduring friendship even after Vinod Khannaks death and more.
How would you describe your feelings for Vinod Khanna?
I owe my career as a director to Vinod. By the time I met Vinod, I had already delivered three massive flops. I was thinking of quitting when I was summoned to the office of the very flamboyant producer Shankar BC, known in his (1970s-80s) days for his generosity and lavish parties. He asked me to come to his office right away, ‘Take a taxi,’ he advised, knowing very well that I was likely to take a bus due to my financial condition.
What happened at Shankar BC’s office?
When I reached Shankar’s office, he didn’t beat around the bush. ‘I want you to direct a film with Vinod Khanna in the lead’. He mentioned that Vinod had recommended my name as director. Vinod and I hardly knew each other at that point of time. He must have seen some potential in me, thankfully! Or I would have quit. The film was Lahu Ke Do Rang. Though it wasn’t a major hit, my wonderful producer Shankar BC spared no expenses, we shot in Hong Kong, no less!
You remained close to Vinod Khanna in spite of some dark patches in your relationship?
Like I said, I owe my career to Vinod. He was, and remains, a dear friend even in death. Although we were of different political ideology—and I do admit that created a distance between us—he remains very close to my heart. Thereafter, Vinod, at the peak of his career, quit Hindi cinema to join Acharya Rajneesh’s commune in Oregon. I also made the same mistake. But disillusion had set in very soon for me. I quit Oregon and Rajneesh after I asked Rajneesh if he had anything more to offer than words because I could get words from any how-to book.
But Vinod stayed on?
Vinod stayed on with Osho in Oregon for much longer. One day I received a call from Vinod saying Rajneesh was very upset with me because I had quit Oregon so suddenly. Rajneesh wanted me to return the trademark mala that all his disciples wore.There was no way I was going to meet him again.He was at his peak when he quit and left. He came back, and made a comeback in cinema. After Lahu Ke Do Rang I worked with him in Jurm.We did another film Marg together which was based partly on our experiences with Rajneesh. The film which also starred Hemaji and Dimple, was complete but could not be released as the producers ran out of funds.
Would you say he was your closest friend?
The elders say, when the world applauds your success, remember the friend who cheered for you in the silence of obscurity.Today as we celebrate his memory my heart swells with gratitude for Vinod. He was my sturdy shelter; he was my treasure. He was like a guiding star, who illuminated my way even from the shadows. I owe my career in the movies to him. Don’t walk behind me; I may not lead you. Don’t walk in front of me; I may not follow. Just walk beside me and be my friend… This is how I remember Vinod Khanna—a true friend and a star. He never asked anyone to follow him or to walk behind him, nor did he allow anyone to lead him. He walked beside me and remained my friend. In fact, he was a springboard for my career. Without his presence, I would have sunk into the abyss of oblivion after a series of flops. There was something he saw in me that he believed was sparkling, and he always made it a point to articulate that.
What do you most remember Vinod Khanna for?
I remember him for his generosity and consistency. He was consistently supportive, regardless of our ideological differences. So, a big thank you to Vinod Khanna, my friend, to whom I owe so much.
