Anupam Kher's Four-Decade Tradition: Honoring Mentor Mahesh Bhatt with Financial Tribute
Veteran actor Anupam Kher has disclosed a remarkable personal ritual that has spanned his entire cinematic career, involving his mentor and director Mahesh Bhatt. In a recent candid interview, Kher shared that after completing every film, he presents Bhatt with an envelope containing Rs 25,000 as a gesture of gratitude for giving him his breakthrough role in the 1984 film 'Saaransh'.
The Evolution of a Heartfelt Tradition
What began as a modest token of appreciation has transformed into a significant financial tribute over four decades. "He gave me my first break so back then I would give him Rs 250 for every film," Kher explained. "Now it's Rs 25,000. He says this is the result of inflation."
The payment has seen a steady increase throughout Kher's career, progressing from Rs 250 to Rs 500, then to Rs 1,000, followed by Rs 5,000, and finally reaching its current amount of Rs 25,000. "I just gave him an envelope last week," Kher revealed. "Now he just holds the envelope and he knows how much is in it. But I really like it. It's more of a ritual than anything else. It's a comedy."
A Dramatic Career Beginning and Reimagining 'Saaransh'
Kher's relationship with Bhatt almost ended before it truly began. The actor recounted a dramatic moment during the making of 'Saaransh' when Bhatt briefly replaced him with veteran actor Sanjeev Kumar just days before filming commenced. After months of intensive preparation, Kher learned he was being dropped from the project.
"Devastated, I decided to leave Mumbai, but not before confronting Bhatt," Kher recalled. "I took the cab to his house, and I walked up the stairs. He praised me for taking the news sportingly, but I told him to look out of his window and see the car that was standing there. It had all my belongings, and I told him that before leaving, I wanted to tell him what a fraud he is... I wanted to make final climactic statement, and I told him that as a Brahmin man, I was cursing him."
Ultimately, Kher's passion and determination convinced Bhatt to reverse his decision, leading to the actor's memorable debut performance that launched his illustrious career spanning over 550 films.
Envisioning an Action-Packed Sequel
When asked if he would like to revisit any of his extensive filmography in a remake, Kher expressed particular interest in reimagining his debut film. "I want to do Saaransh 2 as an action actor," he declared enthusiastically. "I spoke to Mahesh Bhatt a month ago. I told him Bhatt saab, 'I really want to do action because I am working on myself'. I do display my body at the risk of being laughed at. I feel very happy about it."
The actor elaborated on his vision for the potential project: "I would want my character to save people via action. Like in Taken, so I want to do something like that." This revelation showcases Kher's continued creative ambition and willingness to explore new dimensions in his acting career, even four decades after his breakthrough role.
The Significance of Guru-Shishya Tradition in Modern Cinema
Kher's ongoing ritual with Bhatt represents a unique modern interpretation of the traditional guru-shishya (teacher-student) relationship within the Indian film industry. While financial arrangements between mentors and protégés are common, Kher's consistent, escalating payments over forty years demonstrate a rare commitment to honoring his cinematic origins.
The actor's candid revelations provide insight into the personal dynamics that shape Bollywood careers, highlighting how early opportunities can create lifelong bonds between artists. Kher's story serves as a testament to the importance of mentorship in creative fields and the meaningful ways artists choose to acknowledge those who helped launch their careers.
As Kher continues his prolific acting journey, this ritual stands as a tangible connection to his beginnings, reminding both artist and mentor of their shared history in an industry known for its constant evolution and changing relationships.
