Gulzar Recollects: When Kishore Kumar Went Bald To Avoid Being Cast In ‘Anand’

Mumbai: His songs are evergreen and immortal. There are also several funny and memorable Kishore Kumar stories.

In his book, ‘Actually. I Met Them: A Memoir’, Gulzar narrated one such hilarious anecdote about the ‘mad genius’.

The renowned poet, lyricist, author, screenwriter and film director revealed that it was Kishore Kumar who was originally chosen to star in the lead role in the 1971 cult classic ‘Anand’.

But director Hrishikesh Mukherjee’s plans went for a toss as Kishore turned completely bald just days before the film was scheduled to go on floors.

Rajesh Khanna was then approached for the role, and he agreed at a short notice.

“We were all shocked! On top of that, Kishore da went around the office dancing and singing, ‘What will you do now, Hrishi (Hrishikesh Mukherjee)?” Gulzar recounted in his book.

“Consequently, Rajesh Khanna was finalised for the role in a very short time. Perhaps Kishore da never wanted to play the character. Nevertheless, I have never seen someone cutting off their nose to spite their face in such a manner,” wrote Gulzar.

Rajesh went on to produce one of his best performances while Amitabh Bachchan also played a pivotal role to perfection. Salil Chowdhury’s music and Mukesh’s songs became immortal too.

Gulzar shared some other instances of Kishore’s mischief in his book, recalling the incident when the eccentric artist disappeared via a secret staircase to avoid an official meeting.

Kishore died in 1987 at the age of 58.