Renowned director Milan Luthria recently delved into the behind-the-scenes anecdotes of his film Kachche Dhaage, shedding light on an unexpected clash of egos between the legendary qawwali singer Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and veteran lyricist Anand Bakshi.
In a candid interview with Showsha, as reported by Indian Express, Luthria reminisced about the notable incident, revealing that a bit of an “ego clash” had emerged between the duo, both revered as esteemed musical artists. The clash revolved around a proposed meeting that Bakshi had suggested, but the logistics became a point of contention.
According to Luthria, Bakshi insisted that Khan visit his house for the meeting, while Luthria, the director, suggested that the meeting take place at Khan’s hotel. “Bakshi sahab kept postponing it,” Luthria recalled. Determined to resolve the situation, Luthria took matters into his own hands. “I went to Khan sahab. He said, ‘Mulakat nahi ho rahi hai beta, gaana kaise banega?’ (We aren’t able to meet. How will we make the song?) I said it will happen in the next couple of days. He said it won’t and asked me to bring my car around.”
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The filmmaker continued, “We got in the car and reached Anand Bakshi’s house. We rang the doorbell, and Bakshi sahab was shocked that Nusrat sahab was there. Bakshi sahab felt very bad that he had made such a big deal of this. After that, they became friends. The next day, Bakshi sahab came to him, and they started working smoothly together.”
Khan, known for his mesmerizing qawwalis, had started gaining popularity among the younger generation in India during the late 1990s. His venture into composing music for Hindi films marked a significant phase in his career. Unfortunately, the legendary musician passed away in 1997, leaving behind a timeless legacy, with many of his qawwalis still cherished and recreated in Bollywood.
Luthria’s revelation offers a glimpse into the camaraderie and challenges that unfolded during the making of Kachche Dhaage, providing fans with a rare behind-the-scenes look at the collaboration between two musical giants.