When Dharmendra felt betrayed after Rajesh Khanna replaced him in this cult classic, spoiled director's night

Rajesh Khanna is regarded as the 'First Superstar' of Indian cinema. With 15 consecutive solo hits between 1969 and 1971, he is still revered as one of the greatest actors in the history of Indian cinema. His charming onscreen presence, romantic image and endearing personality made him the heartthrob of women and he earned the title of 'Sex Symbol' of Indian cinema. However, before Kaka, another actor had established his existence in the industry. Legendary actor Dharmendra, fondly dubbed as Bollywood's He-Man needs no introduction. He is also widely regarded as the most handsome Indian actor of his time. While Rajesh Khanna made his debut with Aakhri Khat in 1966, Dharmendra debuted in 1960 with Dil Bhi Tera Hum Bhi Tere. By the time Kaka, stepped into the industry, Dharam already had blockbusters. However, did you know, that renowned filmmaker of the time, Hrishikesh Mukherjee 'betrayed' Dharmendra? The director replaced Rajesh Khanna with Dharmendra in a movie, that went on to become a cult classic.

1971's Anand is a cult classic flick which is included in the list of 15 consecutive hits of Rajesh Khanna. Though Amitabh Bachchan's Bhaskar Banerjee character was lauded by moviegoers, Kaka's portrayal of Anand, made the character immortal with his iconic performance.

But Rajesh Khanna was not the first choice for Anand's role. Filmmaker Mukherjee originally considered Dharmendra for the role. Even he narrated the script to Dharmendra, and Dharam was interested in taking on the character. However, later, he roped in Rajesh Khanna for the role. Dharam learnt about it after the movie went on the floors, which made him feel betrayed and annoyed.

Earlier, Dharmendra graced the popular comedy show 'The Kapil Sharma Show' for promoting his grandson's movie. During his appearance, he recalled the incident of being replaced in Anand and without any prior notice.

Dharmendra said, "Hrishida had told me a story on a flight, Anand. While coming from Bangalore, he said to me ‘We were going to do this’ and ‘We were going to do that’. And later, I found out that the movie had started rolling with Rajesh Khanna in the lead role.”

Well, this decision of Mukherjee triggered Dharam and he decided to confront him. Under the influence of alcohol, he continuously called the director throughout the night.
The Yamla Pagla Deewana actor admitted that he didn't let the filmmaker sleep the whole night.

"I told him, 'You were going to give me the role. You told me the story, then why did you give him the film?' He kept telling me, 'Dharam go to sleep. We will talk in the morning'. He would cut the line and I would call him back asking, 'Why did you give him the role.," said Dharmendra.

Anand witnessed a modest run at the box office when it released. However, over time, it gained a cult classic status and is hailed as one of the greatest movies.

On the other hand, despite the bitter experience, Dharmendra and Hrishikesh moved past it and went on to collaborate in Chupke Chupke and Guddi.