The legendary Dilip Kumar was deeply moved by a newcomer’s natural and commanding presence on the sets of the 1968 film Sunghursh. Sanjeev Kumar, playing the pivotal character Dwarka Prasad, was so flawless in his portrayal that an astonished Dilip Kumar turned to the director,
H.S. Rawail, asking ‘Who’s this old man you have cast?’
Following a highly intense scene, the crew broke for lunch. While eating, Dilip Kumar approached Rawail and asked where he had found ‘that great old actor.
The director burst into laughter, revealing that the “old man” was actually just 29 years old his age completely masked by spectacular makeup and incredible acting skills.
In one poignant scene, Sanjeev Kumar’s character dies in Dilip Kumar’s lap. After the take, Dilip Kumar praised his young co-star, calling him a wonderful actor. Known in the industry for his profound versatility, Sanjeev Kumar was so formidable that the “Tragedy King” would frequently praise him by admitting ” This Gujarati boy made me sweat”
The film also famously featured a silent, high-stakes game of chess between the two. Sanjeev Kumar held his own so brilliantly opposite the veteran that the scene required absolutely zero retakes, securing his powerful presence in Indian cinema history.
News Edit KV Raman
