Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai
Mumbai, Jun 18: In a heartfelt tribute to one of Indian cinema’s most beloved films, renowned filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali opened up about the unforgettable experience of creating Hum… Dil De Chuke Sanam, which marks its 26th anniversary this year. Speaking to ETimes, Bhansali fondly recalled the magical atmosphere on set, the deep emotional energy of the script, and the enduring chemistry between stars Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai.
Released in 1999, Hum… Dil De Chuke Sanam went on to become a defining romantic musical drama that elevated Bhansali to national prominence. The film, also starring Ajay Devgn, continues to be cherished for its poetic storytelling, soulful music, and rich visuals.
Reflecting on the emotional core of the film, Bhansali described it as “his gentlest work,” born purely out of passion. “After Khamoshi: The Musical didn’t do well, I wanted to create a film without compromise. Hum… Dil De Chuke Sanam was that film. I stood firm on the ending, despite pressure,” he shared.
Bhansali revealed that there had been significant pressure from various quarters to unite Aishwarya Rai’s character with Salman Khan's in the film’s climax. “Yes, there was pressure,” he admitted, but added with a smile, “That’s a story for another day.”
The filmmaker was full of praise for Aishwarya Rai, whom he described as the “perfect Nandini.” “She was exactly how I had envisioned the character. It’s rare for that alignment to happen so perfectly between an actor and the director’s imagination,” he said.
On the on-screen chemistry between Salman and Aishwarya that took audiences by storm, Bhansali admitted, “There was love in the air — not just between them, but throughout the set. We were like one big family — from Salman and Aishwarya to Vikram Gokhale, Helen Aunty, Smita Jayekar and Zohra Sehgalji. It was a unique experience.”
Bhansali noted that such camaraderie on film sets is rare today. “Now it’s all professional, and I’m okay with that. Times have changed,” he reflected.
When asked if he would ever consider remaking Hum… Dil De Chuke Sanam, Bhansali responded with a clear no. “I don’t believe in remaking my own films — except maybe Khamoshi, because of the altered ending. Otherwise, I prefer to preserve the original essence.”
As the film completes over two and a half decades, Hum… Dil De Chuke Sanam continues to resonate deeply with audiences. A tale of love, sacrifice, and tradition, the film remains a timeless gem in the grand tapestry of Indian cinema — and a shining feather in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s illustrious cap.