Amitabh Bachchan never won awards for ‘Deewaar’?
Amitabh Bachchan never won awards for ‘Deewaar’?
It sounds improbable but it’s a crystal clear fact that While ‘Deewaar’ went on to sweep awards for nearly everyone involved—Shashi Kapoor, Yash Chopra, Salim-Javed, even Nirupa Roy—the one person who didn’t walk away with a trophy was Amitabh Bachchan. Infact he was the heart and soul of this milestone film was overlooked!
‘Deewaar’ wasn’t just a film; it was an explosive narrative that rewrote the rules of Hindi cinema. A gritty adaptation of Mehboob Khan’s ‘Mother India’ and Nitin Bose’s ‘Ganga Jumna,’ with echoes of Elia Kazan’s Hollywood classic ‘On the Waterfront,’ it set the stage for future masterpieces like Mukul Anand’s ‘Hum’ and Vikram Bhatt’s ‘Ghulam.’.
At its core Deewaar was the definitive Angry Young Man saga, encapsulating fury that simmered silently yet powerfully. hile Nirupa Roy’s performance, in a role initially meant for Vyjayanthimala, was nothing short of brilliant.
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Deewaar’ was Amitabh Bachchan’s film through and through. His portrayal of Vijay was electrifying. Lonely, intense, and rebellious, his eyes carried the weight of his character’s pain and defiance. Rumors abound that Vijay was loosely based on the notorious smuggler Haji Mastan, adding another layer to his complex persona.
And yet, it’s fascinating to think that Vijay wasn’t originally meant for Bachchan. After the success of ‘Daag,’ the role was initially offered to Rajesh Khanna. But thanks to Salim-Javed’s insistence, Bachchan stepped in, and the rest is history. Shashi Kapoor’s role, too, was first offered to Navin Nischol, who declined to play second fiddle.
Yash Chopra’s direction was impeccable, ensuring every frame contributed to the film’s riveting narrative. His cinematographer, Kay Gee, brought the grimy, gritty world of godowns and dockyards alive with striking authenticity. If there was one weak spot, it was R.D. Burman’s music, which felt out of sync with the film’s tone. Thankfully, Vijay wasn’t saddled with any songs—a decision that perfectly suited his brooding, introverted character.
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In many ways, Vijay from ‘Deewaar’ was an extension of the one Amitabh played in ‘Zanjeer.’. Both were men consumed by their inner turmoil, fighting battles against a flawed world while grappling with their own morality.
So, while Amitabh Bachchan may not have taken home an award for ‘Deewaar,’ he won something far greater—immortality. To this day, Vijay’s clenched fists, fiery gaze, and smoldering intensity continue to define the very essence of the Angry Young Man in Indian cinema.
News Edit KV Raman
