When Vinod Khanna’s father warned to shoot him dead for working in movies

Late legendary actor Vinod Khanna left for his heavenly abode six years back on the same date on which his dearest friend Feroz Khan passed away. Filmy buffs are well aware that Khanna had even taken sanyas at the peak of his career.

In search of solace, Khanna turned to Osho’s ashram which changed his life for the worst. His search of finding spiritual guidance had ruined his marriage. However, he made a comeback to the Cine world with Dayavan. Directed by Feroz Khan, Vinod Khanna's powerful performance as a gangster helped him win back the hearts of his loyal fan base. 

Also Read: Bollywood legends: When Feroz Khan turned rebellious for Raaj Kumar’s arrogance

Feroz and Vinod shared a close bond. Post Qurbani and Shankar Shambhu the actor duo became close friends. Reminiscing the friendship of the legendary actors, fans paid tributes to them on social media. 

Post Qurbani & Shankar Shambhu #FerozKhan #VinodKhanna became close friends. So when Vinod planned a comeback, Feroz gave him Dayavan.

It's a cruel coincidence that both died on the same date (27/4), at almost same age (69-70), of same reason - cancer.
Remembering them today! pic.twitter.com/YvOhidFnWA

— Mimansa Shekhar | मीमांसा शेखर (@mimansashekhar) April 27, 2023

Vinod Khanna, who made his debut in 1968, initially worked in supporting roles. He also stepped into the shoes of antagonists charming his way into anyone’s heart. With his gorgeous personality and sultry looks, he created a space in the hearts of movie lovers. He ruled the hearts of all and was among the highest-paid actors along with Amitabh Bachchan and Rajesh Khanna. 

But, did you know, his father warned him to shoot him dead if he worked in films?

Khanna was born to Kamla and Krishanchand Khanna on 6 October 1946, in Peshawar, (now in Pakistan). Shortly after his birth, India was partitioned and his family left Peshawar and moved to Bombay (present-day Mumbai).

Fond of playing cricket, Khanna wished to become a cricketer. However, he was spotted by Sunil Dutt after graduation during a party. Dutt instantly offered Khanna to play the antagonist character in the 1968 film Man Ka Meet with Som Dutt as the protagonist. 

Khanna sought permission from his father. However, Krishanchand with traditional thoughts, straightaway denied it. His father insisted that the film industry is a dirty business and he (Vinod) should handle their family business. Further, he also warned him that if he opted for an acting career, he will shoot him dead. 

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However, Khanna was wilful and talked about the proposal with his mother. His mother finally convinced his father and he was granted two years for trying his luck in films. 

He made his acting debut as an antagonist. At the beginning of his career, he played supporting or villainous characters. However, in 1971, he got his first break as a solo lead in Hum Tum Aur Woh. Later, he went on to become a part of several multi-starrer movies in protagonist characters.