Amitabh Bachchan’s iconic film Shahenshah holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. But before the cameras could start rolling, a dark cloud loomed over the project. Director Tinnu Anand revealed that a serious health crisis threatened to derail the entire production.
In a candid conversation with Radio Nasha, Tinnu Anand shared the harrowing ordeal that nearly spelled doom for Shahenshah. Amitabh Bachchan, the legendary actor, had suffered a life-threatening injury on the set of Coolie and was later diagnosed with myasthenia gravis, a rare condition causing muscle weakness. Just days before filming was scheduled to begin, Amitabh was forced to step away due to his health, plunging the production into chaos and financial turmoil.
As the news of Amitabh’s departure spread, creditors began knocking on the door, demanding repayment for the expenses already incurred. Tinnu Anand found himself in a precarious position, struggling to find a way out of the financial mess. Desperate to salvage the project, he considered other actors like Jackie Shroff and Jeetendra to fill the void left by Amitabh.
Jackie Shroff eagerly stepped up to the plate, relishing the attention and buzz surrounding his potential role in Shahenshah. On the other hand, Jeetendra expressed doubts about stepping into the shoes of the legendary Amitabh Bachchan. Despite these efforts, Tinnu Anand soon realized that no one could embody the spirit of Shahenshah quite like Amitabh.
The project was put on hold, pushing Tinnu Anand to the brink of financial ruin. He candidly admitted, “I experienced one year of poverty,” resorting to ad films to make ends meet. It was only through the unwavering support of Amitabh’s brother, Ajitabh Bachchan, that hope flickered back to life. Ajitabh assured Tinnu that once Amitabh had recovered and wrapped up his other commitments, he would return to Shahenshah.
Finally, in 1988, Shahenshah hit the screens, becoming one of Amitabh Bachchan’s biggest blockbusters. The film showcased Amitabh in a dual role, portraying a corrupt cop in the day and a vigilante seeking justice by night. Alongside Amitabh, the stellar cast included Meenakshi Seshadri, Pran, Amrish Puri, Prem Chopra, and Sharat Saxena. Adding a special touch to the film’s legacy was the fact that the story was penned by Jaya Bachchan herself.
Today, Amitabh Bachchan continues to be fondly known as ‘Bollywood’s Shahenshah’, a testament to his enduring legacy in Indian cinema. The journey of Shahenshah is not just a tale of struggle and perseverance but also a reminder of the resilience that defines true legends.
