Meet actor who once took Rs 1 fee a film, despite going through financial crisis, requested director for work, the film was…

Nikhil Advani, known for directing films like Kal Ho Naa Ho, Veda, and Chandni Chowk to China, recently shared his thoughts on how the film industry has changed over the years in an interview. He recalled the time when Amitabh Bachchan took a nominal fee for Mohabbatein and compared it to the significant amounts he earned for Silsila.
The Simplicity of the Past
During an interview with Mirchi, when Nikhil was asked about the difference between the old times and now, he replied, “Simplicity.” He explained that during the making of Silsila, Yash Chopra asked Amitabh Bachchan how much he wanted to be paid. Amitabh, who was planning to buy a house, requested a reasonable amount. Yash Chopra agreed. However, when they were making Mohabbatein, Yash Chopra asked the same question, and Amitabh replied, “Last time, whatever I asked, you gave me. This time, I’ll do the film for just 1 rupee.” And true to his word, Amitabh did Mohabbatein for just 1 rupee.
Family-Like Atmosphere
Nikhil also spoke about the close-knit, family-like atmosphere in the industry back in the day. He shared that relationships in filmmaking were based on trust and simplicity, unlike today’s more calculated approach. “Films were made based on relationships. These days, relationships are built after calculations. Back then, it was like a family,” Nikhil said. He mentioned that Pamela Chopra (fondly known as “Paim Aunty”) would cook for the crew, always checking if anyone had allergies, and preparing a menu accordingly. This personal touch is what made films like Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge and Mohabbatein special.
Amitabh Bachchan’s Comeback with Mohabbatein
Nikhil Advani also reflected on Mohabbatein, which marked a major comeback for Amitabh Bachchan. Before this film, Amitabh had gone through a rough phase in his career. He had been disheartened after multiple setbacks and even visited Yash Chopra’s house wearing a monkey cap to ask for work. It was then that he was offered the role of Narayan Shankar in Mohabbatein, which revived his career and brought him back into the limelight.