Published By: Sayan Paul

31 Years of 'Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa': Noticed 'Swades' director Ashutosh Gowariker in the Film?

Before becoming a filmmaker, Ashutosh Gowariker tried to make it as an actor, with 'Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa' being one of his memorable on-screen appearances.

For those of us who have experienced failure in love, 'Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa' feels like therapy. It's not just because we all relate to Sunil's (Shah Rukh Khan’s character) struggle - that's one part of the story. But more than that, the film assures us that it's okay to fail in love. And failing in love doesn't necessarily mean failing in life. No matter your imperfections, you are still the hero of your own story, even if the world calls you a loser.

Kundan Shah's 'Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa' is one of Shah Rukh Khan’s finest performances, but the film is not just about him. Every actor brings their best to the screen here. Suchitra Krishnamoorthi as Anna, in her Hindi film debut, is picture-perfect, while Deepak Tijori makes Chris incredibly charming. But there’s someone else as well, an actor we didn’t notice separately while watching the film back then, yet he plays an important role. Now, that actor is a celebrated filmmaker worldwide. Any guesses who I am talking about? (Well, as if you didn't read the headline😂)

(Credit: Film History Pics)

Today, as we celebrate 31 years of 'Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa', let's learn that in this article.

Ashutosh Gowariker in 'Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa'

In 'Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa', Ashutosh Gowariker played the role of Imran Bilal, Sunil's friend and one of the members of their music band.

(Credit: Frame Found)

Although not central to the plot, Imran is an important character in the film, who provides Sunil emotional support and often guides his friends towards making the right decisions. Gowariker delivers an impactful performance, making the character feel relatable.

About Ashutosh Gowariker - The 'Actor'

One of Indian cinema's most accomplished directors, Ashutosh Gowariker actually started his career as an actor. He made his acting debut in 1984 with Ketan Mehta's 'Holi', where he shared the screen with Aamir Khan. After that, he appeared in several television serials, including 'Kacchi Dhoop', 'Circus', and 'C.I.D.'. Besides 'Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa', his other film appearances include 'Naam', 'Goonj', 'Chamatkar', and 'Ventilator' among others. Recently, he acted in the Netflix series, 'Kaala Pani'.

(Credit: Ashutosh Gowariker)

Notably, in an interview with Business Standard, Gowariker stated, "... If I am offered a very good part, which will woo me away from my direction, I will do it because somewhere I feel acting is still my first love."

Some Interesting Facts to Know

Gowariker made his directorial debut with the thriller ‘Pehla Nasha’ in 1993. The film had cameo appearances from Aamir Khan and Shah Rukh Khan among others.

11 years after the release of 'Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa', Gowariker directed Shah Rukh Khan in 'Swades'. Although a commercial failure, the film is now considered a cult classic, with many labeling it as SRK's finest film.

(Credit: Ashutosh Gowariker)

At the 39th Filmfare Awards, 'Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa' won 2 awards – Best Film (Critics) and Best Actor (Critics) for Khan. And made on a budget of Rs 14 million, it grossed Rs 55 million at the box office.

In many of his interviews, Shah Rukh Khan has said that 'Kabhi Haan Kabhi Naa' is his favorite film from his filmography.

(Credit: Film History Pics)

In 1999, the film was remade in Telugu as 'Swapnalokam', with Jagapathi Babu and Raasi in the cast.